Several weeks ago in my blog I described the concept of a new of Church – one that that is at least as focused out where people are scattered (i.e., digitally SENT) as one that focuses on having people come to us (i.e., physically GATHERED). If you missed that article, you can read it HERE. While we at McKendree UMC have in our history done a better job than many churches in balancing these two biblical realities, today’s health crisis has highlighted – or should I say, forced – us to be even more intentional about this balance.
So, with that in mind, your staff and lay leadership has been hard at work creating a “new” kind of church for our current “scattered” context. Some of these initiatives are totally new, while others take existing ministries and “retool” them for our current situation. Consequently, we not only want you to be aware of them, but also to invite your friends and neighbors to be part of them, where appropriate:
1) All-Congregation Check-In: A team of caring volunteers and staff will be contacting all active families of our congregation over the next month or so to see how they are doing, if they need anything, and see how we can pray for them. While Pastor Ryan and I made close to 150 similar phone calls to various segments of our congregation during April-May, the availability of a wonderful and dedicated group of caring volunteers will now enable us to check in with our whole active congregation.
2) Digital Learning Ministry (DLD Solutions) for Children of Working Parents: In light of Gwinnett County Schools’ recent decision to go “all digital” to begin the new school year, we are in the process of creating a new ministry called "DLD (Digital Learning Day) Solutions" to provide a safe, supervised space for digital learning for Elementary students whose parents work during the day. Be on the lookout for more information about this very soon.
3) Racial Reconciliation Team Update: This recently-formed team has met twice to pray about and brainstorm about the best way for our church to address the challenging issues of racism and racial injustice in our community and world. Consequently, while our work will eventually include a partnership with other churches, they have felt led that their first initiative will be the creation of an emotionally safe space to share our members' “race stories.” Look for more information soon about how you can be part of this initiative.
4) Online Worship Enhancements: Since we’ll probably not be reintroducing in-person worship again for a while, look for upcoming improvements and enhancements to our online worship experiences, including more interactive elements, new virtual fellowship opportunities (made possible by moving online worship availability back to Sunday morning), and the possible addition of Facebook to the digital platforms where online worship will be available.
5) Additional Online Worship Reminder: look for an additional fun video and/or post in your in-box or Facebook page near each weekend reminding you about the focus of that weekend’s upcoming online worship services.
6) Weekly “Got A Minute? Videos”: Also look for a new, creative, 1-minute mid-week inspirational video from our pastors and staff designed to help you make it through the week. These will be shared via our church Facebook page, as well as being sent out to our weekly eBlast distribution list.
7) "In the Word" Scripture Posts: Featuring regular short scripture posts in your Facebook and Instagram feeds to inspire and give hope.
8) P.P.V. (Pastor's Porch Visits): In this time of social distancing, many of our church’s members and friends have not been able to have company in their home due to health concerns. That’s why Pastor Brian is introducing P.P.V. (Pastor’s Porch Visits) – a medically safe way for you to visit with your pastor(s) at your home. If you’re interested in a visit, contact the church office and we'll make an appointment for him to bring his own lawn chair to set up to visit with you on your front porch, front lawn, driveway, or another outside space of your choice at the appointed time. All visits will include him observing proper social distancing and the wearing of a mask/face shield. He can also bring individual Holy Communion, Upper Room devotional booklets, and Pastor Paula (beginning in September), as requested.
9) Sermon by Phone: a new way for those who are technologically-challenged to be able to join in for “worship.” Each week, people can call a dedicated local phone number to listen to a portion of each week’s Sunday worship service (the scripture, sermon, ending song, benediction, and “Old Irish Blessing”). There’s no need for an ID number or password. They simply dial the number from any phone and listen.
10) McKendree Parents QUARAN-TEAM: a new private Facebook group providing a safe place for parents to share spiritual and emotional encouragement and support during these challenging times. Click HERE to request to join.
11) McKendree Online Webpage: a new page on our church website that will list all of our church’s currently available online opportunities in one, easy-to-find location HERE.
As you can see, your church is hard at work to provide you and those around you with the emotional and spiritual tools you’ll need not just to survive, but to thrive through our continued healthcare crisis. This list is by no means complete – there are other ideas that we are kicking around but have not yet been fully developed. And you may have further suggestions or ideas to help with any of these opportunities (or new ones) that will help us “be the church” not just for you, but for our entire community. If so, please contact me HERE.
In the meantime, know that God loves you and I do, too as we seek to be “People. Doing (virtual) life together. Connecting all through Christ”!
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