Monday's Catch: Reopening Church Buildings and More

'Go Slow' When Reopening Church Buildings

In this article the Rev. Kathy Noble describes what her denomination is doing. Read More

Why Reopening a Church is Different

Everywhere we turn, people are talking about reopening. Should churches simply follow the same guidelines regarding reopening as other institutions? I believe there are practical principles and theological reasons why reopening our church campuses requires a different kind of thinking. The church shouldn’t be looking to sidestep the guidelines. The church shouldn’t be simply reacting to what others are doing. The church should be leading the way by modeling a method of safety for others to follow. Read More

Using Phones to Worship Remotely

Plenty of resources can help United Methodist churches offer online worship that is accessible by computer, tablet or cellphone. However, offering only online worship services when people cannot come together due to the COVID-19 pandemic or for other reasons may not be the best option for every congregation. Read More

One resource that does not get much mention is the local radio station. Many rural areas do have a local radio station and many older people living in the area listen to the station.

The Influenced Will Be Like the Influencer

We are easily influenced. It is a feature of humanity (and not a bug) that we learn best by example, by imitation. We are natural imitators and thrive on a combination of formal instruction and observable example. It is little wonder then that we cast about for teachers, for mentors, for people who can influence us, people we can imitate. All the while we know that we must find truthful and trustworthy influencers. With this in mind, we’d do well to hear Jesus’s back-to-back warnings about the power and perils of influence in Luke 6. Read More