Photo Credit: Timemagazine.com
In previous months,we have seen churches around the country eager to open or reluctant to take the chance due to the pandemic. Despite this massive bump in the road, places of worship have reimagined the way we fellowship.
At the start of the coronavirus, all places that were unable to remain socially distant or deemed essential were shut down for months. Though places of worship are seen as essential, pastors and leaders are still apprehensive about opening their doors. At the height of the pandemic some churches around the country maintained regular worship services and contracted the virus.
According to Kate Conger of the New York Times,“more than 650 coronavirus cases have been linked to nearly 40 churches and religious events across the United States since the beginning of the pandemic, with many of them erupting over the last month as Americans resumed their pre-pandemic activities.” The concern of a massive outbreak and possible death of members has the majority halting the normal worship experience and completely reimagining the way we see the traditional church.
Many churches have taken full advantage of virtual platforms. While some already held streaming services prior to Covid, many weren’t equipped and had to make swift adjustments to reach their members. The ability to record services and post them has allowed churches to reach more people than they would have from any unrecorded service. Many churches have seen an influx of views and streams since the stay at home order due to coronavirus.
“My church, as well as many others I associate with, have flourished in membership and attendance. We are reaching thousands all over the country and for that I’m grateful and in awe,” said Reverend Gary Colter of Peekskill, New York. So much has transpired in the last seven months but it seems that faith is growing and that church is more than the walls that seemingly contain it.
Churches have maintained weekly services, classes and even virtual concerts to keep the faith and remain engaged. Many places of worship have upgraded technology and established weekly plans to give quality services. By doing so, many individuals are given a chance to feel like they’re in the building. It’s mind blowing to see the production and engagement that has taken place because of this pandemic.
Various classes like bible studies and small groups within the church have still remained active due to zoom keeping contact with old members as well as potential new ones. Speaking from experience, the church I attend has maintained all business and practices as normal by still remaining socially distant. Everyone does their part in making the transition over the last few months more bearable.
Though the pandemic has caused us to reimagine the place we view as a safe haven, it has also been a blessing in the areas that needed it the most. Churches that are remaining closed have transformed the way their message is received, changing the way we do church for years to come.
