The current coronavirus pandemic has affected the entire world and has not excluded the church or faith-leaders. I am reminded of the scripture in Matthew 16 where Peter affirms his knowledge of the identity of who Jesus Christ was then Jesus responds to Peter with the declaration that the gates of hell shall not prevail against His church (Matthew 16:15-19). Today, we must stand on this declaration to the church. Know that amid this deadly coronavirus, it will not prevail against the effectiveness of the church!
Historically, the church has met inside its brick and mortar on Sunday mornings, evenings and for midweek bible studies. However, now things have shifted and our gatherings are not the same. We cannot gather, worship, shake hands, hug, or be the typical Christian shepherds to our parishioners that we may be accustomed to. This crisis has caused pastors to deviate from normality to re-imagine how to do church, administer communion, pay church bills and stay connected to members.
This shift came unexpectedly first in March with the tornado and now with COVID-19. These are the most challenging and uncertain days so far in this 21st century to be a pastor. This has taken us into a new reality of missional identity of technical evangelism which leads to a “Unconventional Church” model.
Let’s look at the word unconventional: not bound by or in accordance with convention: being out of the ordinary, not traditional or usual, deviating from commonly accepted beliefs or practices, not bound by traditional ways or beliefs (1).
This unconventional church model has become a norm because most churches are not allowed to meet with more than 10 people in the brick and mortar buildings. The new normal is gathering via; Zoom, conference calls, robo calls, Video boost, drive-In church, watch parties, Facebook live, livestream, Instagram, webinars, and more. This unconventional adjustment has given pastors new titles like director, stagehand, producer, and editor in order to stay connected with members.
As pastors we are looking forward to regathering in our churches when the “Safer at Home” band is lifted. Meeting in the church has a special place in our hearts and Sunday routines, as we faithfully study to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am encouraged by the scripture Isaiah 43:19 (ESV) “19 Behold, I am doing a new thing: now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Despite this new virus, God has not forgotten about His church. Keep in mind, God is doing a new thing, because to everything there is a season (Eccl.3:1) and we must understand that there is nothing new under the sun (Eccl. 1:9), according to the word of God.
As pastors continue to embrace this newness during this pandemic, below are a few things to keep you in rhythm with this new reality.
1. Create flyers that gives information of your church like:
Methods to give
Ways to stay connected to the church (website, fb page, twitter, Instagram)
Your Church address, phone number, email
A Picture on flyer with pastor, building (family, spouse if possible) This creates the relational family perspective
Small group and other youth, children, senior activities
Any links to your church’s ministries
2. Develop and build a FB Live/Social Media “Comment Team.”
This team will be active when you go live and will respond to all comments made during your broadcast.
This team keeps the viewers engaged and creates a desire to stay connected
3. Take the time at the end of your FB Live and let your viewers know you would love to stay connected with them and their family. Give them ways to do that.
4. Make Robo calls to your members (Call-em-All.com)
Be encouraged pastors because God’s word says in Jeremiah 29:11 (MSG) “I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.”
The use of all these different technological resources may be awkward in the beginning. However, be assured that they will prove to be essential during this time. Know that with continued usage, you will adapt and your congregation will continue to thrive.
Dwayne Lewis
Church Planting Strategist
Nashville Baptist Association
Cell 615.519.2222
Office 615.259.3034