RON HAMILTON, CONFERENCE MINISTER
We have received numerous calls and emails regarding suggestions for reopening churches. I will work with our staff to prepare some recommendations and encourage people to share stories from their experience. The situation varies greatly across the nation. Churches in the Dakotas and Montana are already open. Churches in metropolitan areas may not open for weeks.
Consider these things when making decisions…
- BE WISE– God promises wisdom for those who ask (James 1:5). Decisions on reopening should be made based on “God told us” rather than “we can”. Prayerfully seeking God’s will and wisdom will bring unity to the congregation.
- BE RESPECTFUL– Leaders continue to provide guidance based on the current realities of the effects of the pandemic. Church members have conflicting views on what is best for the church. Reopening our churches should demonstrate respect for guidance and understanding people’s viewpoints. This is a time for the fruits of “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” to be shown.
- BE REALISTIC– The pandemic has not ended, and we may see a resurgence. Some will choose to stay home even if the church is open. Churches should continue to provide live or recorded broadcasts of services until the pandemic has ended. Things will return to a semblance of normalcy, but it will take a while.
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
" (Numbers 6:24-26)
