3 Things Your Church Needs

By Miranda Hendricks

The times we are living in are unprecedented. The news and social media are currently overwhelmed with developing information around multiple crises. Every day, we learn a new characteristic of COVID-19, hear a new CDC recommendation, or watch as protests arise across the nation. With so many stressors and months spent in quarantine, it's no wonder that many are struggling with a phenomenon known as “crisis fatigue". Our hearts hurt for our brothers and sisters across the world, and many feel overwhelmed and helpless.

In these uncertain times, people are in desperate need of hope. As we look for a way to move forward, various sources are offering opinions and guidance. Politicians, celebrities, news anchors, and the like all have something to say. However, as a Christian leader, you carry the hope of Christ that the world needs right now. Jesus is the ultimate answer to the hurting heart. As we look to God for help, we can remember Paul's words found in Ephesians 3:20 (TPT),

“Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energizes you.”

Your God-given calling in this hour is important, and your church is looking to you for direction. Our communities need support—whether it is spiritually, financially, mentally, or physically. So how can you help your church adjust to the new realities that our country is facing?

Here are three things your church needs right now.

1. They need connection.

Stay-at-home orders have led to people spending more time online than ever before. As a result, many are dealing with increased feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression, as they scroll through their feeds oversaturated with difficult current news.

Many are working through job loss, the loss of loved ones, and financial hardship. In a shaking society, everyone is searching for a sense of security. With the majority of social events canceled, they are left with no outlet to talk through their concerns and find support. 

As a leader, this is where you can step in and intentionally engage your congregation. When addressing your church, recognize what they are feeling and show empathy. Consider setting up online bible studies and community groups where your members can find a safe place to connect. By doing so, you will create a sense of belonging and acceptance within your congregation that will overflow into your community. 

2. They need practical action.

We’ve all heard it before: it’s one thing to talk the talk, and it’s another thing to walk the walk! You’ve addressed the need for connection, so what next? Now is the moment for action. How are you going to take practical steps to help your congregants navigate the issues at hand? 

Depending on the situation, your church can fundraise for a cause or allocate money already set aside to support organizations that are on the front lines of the pandemic and social justice issues. 

Your church can act by coming together to serve your community in whatever ways needed. Whether it be a food drive or sewing masks, find out if there is an area of community service to involve your church in to make a difference.

During this season, your ministry may be receiving more benevolence requests than usual. It’s important to have a benevolence policy established to benefit your community and congregants. With our new software suite, Called to Care, we will explore the keys to creating a program that allows your church or ministry to fulfill its mission of honoring God through serving the physical needs of those in distress.

3. They need hope for the future.

If we've learned anything over the past few months, it's how little control we have over our schedules. However, plans give us a vision and hope for the future. That's why it's wise to make plans even if there is potential that they could change. Consider planning a tentative date for a socially-distanced service, a fun summer event, or an outreach opportunity. Whether large or small, offering your congregation a vision for the days ahead will give them the motivation to keep pressing forward. No matter how bleak things currently look, we can hold fast to the promise found in Jeremiah 29:11:

" For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Get Your Message Out Effectively

It is important to determine the most effective ways to reach as many of your people as possible. Since meeting in-person with your whole congregation is still somewhat unrealistic, online platforms are most likely your best option. Sending out an email, uploading a YouTube video, posting on social media, or holding an online meeting are great options to stay safe while keeping in touch. If you need a website but don't know where to begin, our team is happy to assist you. StartSITES is a great resource to create an online presence to connect with your congregation while continuing to social distance.

The New Normal

As a nation, we are collectively adjusting to a new way of life for the foreseeable future. You have an opportunity to build a solid foundation for your church to remain steadfast in the changing times. The good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. We know that when we ask God for help to meet our needs, He will give us immeasurably more than all we could ask or expect. As a leader in ministry, God will equip you with everything you need to lead your congregation through this season.

We would love to talk with you today about how you can establish a strong foundation for your church. Give us a call at 877-494-4655 and let us help equip you to protect what God has called you to lead.

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