As many of us anticipate getting the COVID-19 vaccines and hopefully gathering in the near future, we are still feeling a lack of connections from family, friends, and the communities we’ve spent years cultivating. The church for most of us has played a big part in our lives, the friends we’ve made, and the support we’ve received before and during this pandemic. Even as we continue to social distance, it’s important to remember that there are ways to reconnect with our church home. Below are five ways you can reconnect today.
but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. -1 John 1:7
1.Watch online: You’ve probably seen the notifications on social media to join the Sunday Service online. If you miss worshiping and fellowshipping with fellow church members, this is a great way to do so while staying safe in your home. Login, hear the word and make sure you’re dedicating that time to getting closer to God. It is easy to fill your week with events even though pre-COVID these days were spent at church. Remember that we can bring the church into our homes by attending online services.
2. Recommit to a church group: Maybe you are a part of a Bible study group that hasn’t met in a year or you were a part of the tech team. If you have been having a hard time with being at home recommit to being active in these groups. If you haven’t been doing so, see if your Bible study group is willing to meet on Zoom or do a phone conference. Maybe you can help with the streaming or marketing of the online services? See if the team you were a part of can meet virtually. Is the women’s group interested in doing a virtual brunch or the men’s group leading a virtual men’s event?
3. Call friends from church: This may seem like an obvious thing but statistics show that people are lonelier now more than ever. Many of has have been separated from family and friends for over a year now. Calling church members to check in on them will reengage church members who have missed online service. It also reminds us that we’re not alone. Many of us may not be aware of what’s going on in each other’s lives and a simple phone call can mean the difference for someone who is missing human connection but doesn’t know how to go about it. This can spark longer connections and friendships.
4. Ask how you can get involved: Maybe you were a new member of the church or you weren’t previously involved in any of the church groups. Another way you can get involved is to ask church leaders where they need support. Be open to doing anything, from cleaning, dropping off food, or helping with a project. You are committing to where there is a need. You will gain a lot of experience this way and learn more about the church.
5. Share your gifts with your church: We all have certain gifts and talents. Use this time to share your talents with the church. Maybe you’re a singer, public speaker, or a wonderful project manager. Whatever your talents are be open to sharing them with others. This a wonderful way to learn about yourself and encouraging others at the same time.
COVID-19 has forced us to communicate with each other differently but it also offers us the opportunity to reconnect. How are you staying connected to church during the pandemic? Share in the comments below.
