Like every other congregation, all public gatherings have been suspended. Unlike some other leaders, Christian Fellowship SDA Church has decided to obey the civic mandated restrictions for the safety of the members. We are utilizing social media technology like our sister churches. Of course, not meeting on a regular basis where we experience worship and fellowship is a missing vital element especially in these times of panic and stress. We have incorporated an inter active element in our church service that I call “ checking in”. This allows the members to talk and share experiences from the week. This is a phase in our worship service. The preaching phase is abbreviated at this point in order to accommodate this needed dialogue.
Also, the nurses are in need of attention because many are now working with Covid 19 patients and they are afraid. We have decided to put in place a support group for all medical professionals especially nurses and doctors. They meet, along with a social worker, on Zoom to process their traumatic encounters during the week. This will be an ongoing intervention type ministry. I have also been asked by the New York City Public Advocate, Jumaane Williams to provide counseling and chaplaincy services for stressed city employees. The area of great concern that I have is for our members who are dying as a result of this pandemic. These families are in desperate need of ministry and something will have to be done.
We are trying our best like to provide ministry to the people of God. Much of what we are doing is experimental and we are learning as we go.
by Pastor Allen Martin, Christian Fellowship SDA Church