* Editors Note: Upfront: As we look at Reunion Sunday only gather (in person) when relevant authorities say you can. And, when you do, follow the guidelines given by them. We must be responsible citizens and love our neighbors. This post, “A New Normal For The Post-Quarantine Church” is part two of three in the series.
After the excitement wears off, the church must be ready and in place for the new normal. A normal where people are hyperaware of the possibilities of viruses and pandemics. The virus might still return for a second round. There may be future crises. The church needs to become a safe place. It is already a safe place for many other situations, and now it needs to be a safe place for the elderly, the vulnerable, the immunocompromised not only for this season but for all seasons.
Alongside the Reunion Sunday campaign, prepare messages and information in the form of social posts and press releases that your church is taking proactive steps to assure the safety of members and guests from the community. We mentioned some of these in our previous post. Consider developing a good relationship with the medical community and the local health department in your area.
Seek their advice on how to mitigate disease while providing a meaningful worship experience. Be sure to show your appreciation for those on the front lines. Have a special day down the road where you invite nurses, doctors, paramedics, officers, and other frontline workers as your special guest to honor them.
It is vital for the church to become known as a place that the community and community leaders can turn too in times of crisis. The church also needs to engage in crisis planning for future similar events. Maintaining a good relationship with local community leaders is a must.
A new normal is about thinking about wellness of the whole man. We’re not just talking about spiritual health, but also physical, mental and communal. This means having an awarenesses of personal and environmental (e.g. our buildings / facilities) right through to communal / shared experiences/
A new normal for the post-quarantine church is not business as usual. It is the church getting back to its roots. It’s all about helping people discover and experience a relationship with God. A new renewed focus not on our buildings, services, or programs, but on the mission of God’s church.
Reunion Sunday Resource Pack
If you haven’t already, pick up the Reunion Sunday Pack, a free gift to your church
- Reunion Sunday Pack$0.00
If you haven’t already, also check out The Long Term Impact of COVID-19 On Churches
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