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I’ve been reading books and articles about the post-pandemic church. All agree that we will not go back to “normal” although what normal is varies greatly among churches. In the past year, I’ve prayed and wondered about what The Downtown Church will be like - what strategies we will need in place, who will return to in-person worship, when do we resume ministries, and who we will continue to reach online.
I’ve learned much this past year. I’ve learned the vision God gave us in 2015 will guide us forward. More than ever, I believe, Springfield needs The Downtown Church to be a place that meets in the middle of rich & poor, young & old, believers & nonbelievers. A place where Christ and the community intersect.
I’ve learned that the way we grew The Downtown Church initially - by building relationships - will always be the way evangelism is done best. It’s been more complicated this past year to maintain and build new relationships, yet the need has grown. In a divided culture, the church of Jesus Christ has much to say and do to reach people who will love greatly, give selflessly, live gratefully.
And although in May of 2020 I felt like, “Oh no! We are going to have to start all over again when this pandemic ends,” I was wrong. That was fear and grief talking, not the Holy Spirit. The Downtown Church has the mission, vision, and values in place, and the commitment of many people who are ready and willing to work together for the sake of all God’s children. Pre-pandemic, intra-pandemic, post-pandemic - friends, with God leading us, we’ve got this. And I am grateful.
See you Sunday, online or in-person,
Lori
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