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.
The church that returns from lockdown will not be the church that left the building
We have learned some things about ourselves during these weeks as physically scattered churches. The poignant question may not be how will WE as the church emerge, but rather first how will I emerge? Or, what part(s) of the body am I now?
Without choirs or bands, churches seek to provide congregants with music virtually
While many churches have become more adept producing online services during the COVID-19 crisis, the music aspect of congregational worship is still a challenge to recreate virtually.
10 pandemic takeaways, personal and pastoral
I sense our country is at a rare moment, quietly listening. The gospel message is going deeper than usual. The crucified, risen Messiah is relevant.
The vital work ahead: evangelizing the evangelicals and demythologizing the empire
We are being called to die for an economy that only works for a handful of people. The racial caste system brutalizes black and other communities of color, while dangling just enough opportunity to white people to keep the system intact and to prevent most of us from revolting.
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.”
Much has changed over the past two months. Some changes are worth holding on to.
Let’s pray that, in some ways, our world never returns to its pre-COVID-19 “normal.”