Long-Term Pandemic Effects

The pandemic has changed many church norms; both in worship and for church business meetings. I am finding that several churches prefer a Zoom call to an in-person meeting at the church. I think this is due in part to an aging church membership that does not like to drive at night. Once we got used to the new technology, we liked the benefits of remote meetings. Here are just a few:

• During the winter months, our snowbirds can participate.
• Meeting at night is a good option for all members.
• Save on heating a room at the church.
• Weather is not an issue.
• Save on gas and pollution.
• Sharing documents online saves paper.
• Can invite guest speakers from the Foundation and beyond.

Unfortunately, for many churches, people also prefer to watch services at home. The early data that I have seen points to in-person attendance declining by up to 50%. More churches are reporting declines in both membership and giving. Hybrid worship has mixed reviews. Some churches with good audio-visual equipment and talented lay people are maintaining an online presence. On the other hand, without a quality online worship service, members can easily visit other churches.

I think the church offering plate offers us a tangible example of the long-term effects of the pandemic. The offering plate has either disappeared or has been located in a specific spot in the church – often in the back of the church. The rush to online giving and giving directly from bank accounts is making the offering plate obsolete.

Technology has and will change society; how we work and how we play. Because we are called to be stewards of the mysteries of God, we need to be strategic about how we use technology to make and grow disciples. We need to ask ourselves is the technology we are implementing bringing people closer to Jesus, or placing a stumbling block in their way?