Churches Embrace Innovation and Creativity During COVID-19

Submitted by Chifuka Chundu, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Edmonton Central Seventh-day Adventist Church

I've often heard our pastors mention how the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the church to implement long-overdue innovations. I couldn't agree more! The current lockdown has brought out talent and creativity previously hidden and unknown among our members. Pastors and members have stepped up to the plate with innovative teaching methods and the cutting-edge usage of technology. Videoconferencing technology has been embraced in conducting the business of the church, and in some cases, completely new ministries have been birthed from this crisis. Another unexpected surprise has been the visitors that have “shown up” for many of our services from places as far as the US and even Africa! It has been said many times that church is not the building; it is the people who make up the church. Perhaps this pandemic will help us refocus on reaching out to the world beyond our walls. At Edmonton Central, some of the creative ideas that we have implemented since the lockdown started include:

• A daily “Minute Motivation” video message from our pastors via Facebook

• Zoom prayer meetings for adults and a youth “Power Up” meeting on Wednesdays

• A children's department weekly video and newsletter

• An enhanced YouTube streaming worship experience and interactive Zoom Sabbath School

• A Sabbath afternoon virtual Pastor’s study class

• A weekly virtual workout session

Church members joining prayer meetings, motivational minutes, connecting virtually and spiritually. Technology proves to be a great tool when used purposefully.

God has opened up new and exciting windows to share His grace and peace with a hungering and desperate world, and He has promised to walk with us to the end. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” ( Joshua 1:9, NIV).