Were We Ready? Covid's Impact on Church Volunteerism

Were we ready? Of course not. We had no time. In early January 2020, most of us hadn’t heard of covid. Less than 3 months later, it had disrupted our lives and our churches. But we adapted. By Easter, most churches had found a way to live stream worship; by summer, our groups were gathering virtually.

How has covid affected our volunteers? Some have adapted–communion assistants are helping with drive-up communion and small groups are meeting virtually. New opportunities have opened up–weekly phone calls to those most affected by the pandemic; techs to help with live and recorded worship elements. But the picture is different when we look at long term effects of covid. It has greatly affected our older generations, often our most faithful, long-term volunteers. Who will take their place? How will we manage? How can we prepare for the next disruption? Continue reading

Let's Talk!

How has covid affected volunteerism in your church? What issues are you facing? What resources would be helpful? The Equipper wants to understand the needs of churches so that together we can share, discover -- and create -- helpful resources. When we intentionally help each other serve, we serve more effectively, at church and in everyday life. Share your thoughts.

Resources: Serving in Everyday Life

Are you serving intentionally, joyfully, impactfully and faith-fully in your everyday life? Are the people in your church doing so? Here are three resources that address everyday serving.

All the Places to Go: How Will You Know? by John Ortberg. With frequent nods to Dr. Seuss's book of similar title, this practical and easy to read book helps us view our vast array of choices as God's open doors. Read review

Every Good Endeavor by Tim Keller. Thorough and thoughtful, but also highly readable, this book addresses the joys, frustrations and challenges we face in the work we do to earn a living. Read review.

But Now I See! by Julie Maschoff. This 8-session Bible study, for group or individual use, helps us see where God has brought us and where he is calling us to go. Read review.

Subscribe here if you received this from a friend. To unsubscribe, use "Manage your subscription," below.