The recent COVID-19 pandemic is not only impacting the way we worship but also the way we work. If you’re like me, you may be working remotely for the next few weeks. For some of you, the thought of working remotely brings a bag of mixed emotions:
- bittersweet relief, because you were in need of respite;
- terror, because you’re an extrovert and being away from people for so long seems unfathomable and isolating;
- panic, because you may have to adopt a new, temporary way of doing ministry; and
- disillusionment, because you’re just not sure what to do or where to start.
I thought I’d share a few suggestions dealing with the last point because despite all of the things beyond our control right now, we can use the time at home to our benefit.
- Develop a plan for when services/ministry resumes.
- What safety measures are you taking? (For example, I read a suggestion to toss used play doh. I’ve already ordered a new supply.)
- What needs to be communicated to volunteers and parents?
- What supplies, if any, need to be ordered?
- Think through how you can keep families connected and engaged while in-person services are put on hold. Consider using social media, email and other platforms to share resources that families can use at home.
- Be available for meetings via platforms such as Zoom or Google Hangouts. While your in-person meetings may be temporarily suspended, there are platforms to keep you connected and allow you to plan and strategize for the weeks to come.
- Listen to podcasts. I don’t know about you, but I don’t always make time for listening to podcasts. Looking for great ones to check out? Here are a few suggestions:
- Read. If you have been meaning to read ‘that’ book, now is a good time. I am currently reading a few but Dale Hudson’s Lead Well in Children’s Ministry has given me lots of golden nuggets recently.
- Catch up on email. It’s easy to let our inboxes overflow so now’s a great time to work toward a zero inbox.
- Get ahead in your planning. Get a head start on lesson planning, ordering needed supplies, summer camp/VBS or even next ministry year. Do what you can and plan as best as you can.
- Collaborate with staff, ministry leaders and community leaders about ways to meet felt needs of those in your church and community. School closures because of COVID-19 means parents might be in need of childcare support and meals. Vulnerable neighbors might not be able to pick up prescriptions, make it to the grocery store, or walk their dogs. How can you help with that?
- Use your social media platform to provide encouraging words, scriptures and prayer. With all that’s happening, fear and anxiety levels are high. Your presence can be comfort to families who need it.
- Rest. Every day life patterns are being disrupted. Children are asking questions that parents may feel ill-equipped to answer. Supplies are in short supply. Take time to turn off the noise (TV and social media) to just rest. Pray about what’s happening. Pray for those guiding us. Pray for ways you can support those around you. Pray for your own peace of mind and for peace that passes all understanding. Remember, God is still in control.
Ponder: what steps can you take to maximize your time at home if you’re working remotely? Leave me a comment below to let me know!
