There are three components of the PCUSA Matthew 25 initiative: Building Congregational Vitality, Dismantling Structural Racism, and Eradicating Systematic Poverty.  Each Wednesday for the next seven weeks, the Office of Vital Congregations is holding a zoom conversation focused on Building Congregational Vitality during this time of Sheltering in Place.   The first of these conversations focused on:  Caring Relationships.  How do we practice Caring Relationships in a time of social distancing?

First, what is Congregational Vitality?  As defined on the Matthew 25 webpage:   a community’s vitality is primarily its spiritual strength and its capacity for purposeful mission. Congregational vitality is evident in a worshiping community when its structural systems, finances and discipleship practices are aligned in such a way that the community is actively engaged in the mission of God in their local community and the world, and they are powerfully focused on growing as disciples in the way of Jesus Christ. Faith comes alive when we boldly engage God’s mission and share the hope we have in Christ.

One of the seven marks of Congregational Vitality is:  Caring relationships modeled on God’s love. This involves, opening our doors and hearts to all people, and building relationships modeled on God’s love, which leads to genuine reconciliation and peace.

So how do we do this when we can no longer gather in person as community?  One participant shared:  “This is a time for physical distancing but a time for socially drawing near.”  We need to change the language from social distancing to physical distancing.  As social creatures, we must do whatever we can to stay socially connected and socially close.

At this time, the church has the opportunity to reach out to the entire membership by phone, email, social media and regular mail.  So often, we spend time focused on those we see on Sunday during worship or those that gather through the week for Bible Studies, meetings, or other activities.  We also need to pay attention to each other’s social media posts.  People are anxious and fearful and may share that through social media.  If you see something that seems to be expressing that, call the person and invite them to talk.

As we seek to stay connected with our congregations, we also need to pay attention to ways in which we can reach out to the children and youth of our congregations.  Some congregations are doing special story times for the children or are doing a separate Children’s sermon for families.  One suggestion was holding an on-line scavenger hunt for the youth group.  This can be done through a video conference call such as zoom.

Another person shared that she is sharing art with her congregation that depicts Caring Relationships and are inviting them into a conversation through the art.

We have a wonderful opportunity to re-connect with those that have, perhaps, socially distanced themselves from the church for one reason or another.  It is time to reach out, check-in, listen and express our care for each other.  This is the time to show people we care.

How is your congregation practicing “Caring Relationships” during this time?  Share your stories by sending them to resourcecenter@highlandspresbyterynj.org