Pastor Lessons From the Pandemic
When managing your church during a pandemic, there is no such thing as overcommunication. We have learned in our work with churches that staying connected with donors and members is crucial for survival.
Here are some lessons to keep in mind when facing the remaining pandemic days, such as leading your congregation behind closed doors and keeping faith strong. If you feel the topics are relevant, you can share the lesson ideas and resources in your online webinars and pastor workshops.
Focus on Faith and Trust
These are trying times, even for the strongest of believers. Churches starting on a new year sometimes saw their donations lessen because of the pandemic. However, there is no better time to give your faith walking shoes as you put it into action.
If your church needs more donations, post prayer requests and crowdfunding requests on your digital newsletters. Make people aware of the need. Trust that as you provide spiritual guidance, the material blessings will follow.
Practice Better Teamwork
Nothing could prepare us for the magnitude of what we faced in 2020. There are no pastor courses on becoming experts at leading your flock through a pandemic. But what is certain is that the need for teamwork is even greater.
With conflicts arising all over the globe, you might see discussions show up across church communities and management boards. Focus on teaching your fellow pastors the benefits of collaboration when faced with a crisis.
Be Ready to Adapt and Change
Churches have known for a while that they could not operate “business as usual” in a changing world. But the pandemic forced us all to become more innovative.
Pastors should be ready to take on a more flexible mindset, such as working with digital platforms like those available on DonorWerx.
Suggested reading: How to Get Started with Online Giving for Churches
Suggested reading: 10 Ways to Keep Your Donors’ Attention Online
Find New Ways to Offer Comfort
How can you help give church members the peace and comfort they need when you can’t have in-person services? Many churches have gotten on board with producing podcasts, streaming videos, and creating their own spiritual guidance apps.
There are countless ways to connect on a deep level digitally, so take time to research what your church can do to appeal to your own members and donors online.
Connect With the Elderly on Their Level
Churches must remember that not everyone is digitally inclined. Many churches now offer to counsel over the phone, since some elderly members lack social media accounts and therefore can’t stay updated with tweets or Facebook posts.
When upgrading to a digital approach, don’t forget that members may still prefer a more traditional approach. Handwritten pastor letters, a comforting phone call, or a radio program to reach them are just a few options that make a valuable difference.
As you continue to lead your church members through an unstable and difficult time, let the Scriptures below encourage you with hope for better days ahead. When you have inner peace in your heart, and when you are sure of your mission and purpose, you can face any hardship and meet any obstacle.
Psalm 27:1
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Matthew 10:29-31
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
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For more helpful pastor resources and tips for getting started on your donor journey, visit us at DonorWerx today.
