The face mask debate among Christ followers amid a devastating global pandemic demands that we think deeply about what outward signs signify about inward spiritual grace. I have come to view wearing a protective mask as a spiritual practice.
An alternative to ‘virtual communion’ for the scattered church
Amid discussions about the practice of “virtual communion” in these extraordinary times, we commend an ancient Christian practice that may be relevant for churches today, especially for those that have decided they cannot celebrate communion virtually.
What if Americans go looking for spiritual renewal and our churches are too troubled to help?
I find myself in awe of the clergy and laity offering frontline care of souls in response to COVID-19, lovingly creating ministry alternatives, even from a distance. While these acts of selflessness are themselves a dramatic sign of spiritual renewal, sobering trends confront America’s churches.
I have a few choice words for people protesting public health directives. Then I hear that still, small voice.
As disciples of Jesus, we do not have the luxury of hating people, writing people off, dehumanizing them or wishing them ill, even when they are acting in the worst ways possible.
Churches are compelled to support practices to combat pandemic
“Through their actions, they’re not just harming people in our community, they’re harming and putting members of their own congregation at risk.”
Ahmaud Arbery and a pandemic of injustice
The novel coronavirus crisis has ushered in a pandemic of injustice. A central theme in this story is that the most vulnerable among us have been the most deeply impacted by a sickness that does not discriminate.
Churches (cautiously) prepare to reopen as states lift COVID-19 restrictions
Many churches are taking a slow, methodical approach to returning to in-person worship even as some states reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Churches: Take the PPP money and walk
I think a decision not to participate in the PPP program would be a mistake. If your church does take the money, see it as an invitation to do more good in your community.
Amid this pandemic, can we say with Julian of Norwich, ‘All shall be well’?
More than six centuries later, Julian of Norwich still speaks to modern Christians caught, like her, in the clutches of another “Great Pestilence.”