Connection is a word that we have heard used around the church more during the past 7 months than any other time. We were designed by God for connection with Him and with others. In Genesis 2:18 God said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” It was then that he created Eve from Adam’s rib so that he would not be alone. It is natural for us to a desire to have connection with other people.
As we continue to navigate social distancing, self-quarantine, masks, and hand sanitizer, the church has had an opportunity to offer connection that is desired and needed. To be connected means to be joined with others in heart or purpose. It means to be united in pursuit of a common objective. Many church leaders fear this is an endangered component of church life. In a recent Lifeway Research survey, Protestant pastors indicated that keeping their scattered church members connected was one of their biggest areas of concern.
This past Sunday, I met with our adult Sunday School class leaders in a Zoom meeting. The purpose of this meeting was to encourage our leaders to continue to keep their classes connected. I was encouraged to hear the many ways that our classes are working to keep our people connected. Some of the ways that our classes are staying connected range from Zoom Sunday School, conference call Sunday School, email bible studies, social media groups, email prayer list and staying in touch by way of the telephone.
We are currently working with our adult class teachers to offer an ‘at large’ bible study class by way of Zoom on Sunday evenings. There would also be an opportunity for a small group to meet in person in the reception room to join this Zoom bible study. We will be promoting that opportunity through email and The Messenger. If you would like to be in the rotation of teaching this class, please call the church office and let us know. This will give others that may not currently be in a class to be connected in a bible study.
Another way that we are staying connected is through our SERVE opportunities. Saturday, October 10 there are service opportunities that will be taking place around our community. If you are interested in participating, please call the church office to sign up.
We long to be back in full swing of ministries and being able to worship, study God’s Word and fellowship with our church family. Until that time comes, we must continue to work hard with keeping our church family connected and to stay connected with our community. It is our desire to offer opportunities for every member to be connected. Thank you for your faithfulness during these difficult times.
Pastor Dan