Studies
John Bottomley and the Creative Ministries Network Congregation have created two bible studies which can be used by small groups as they seek to be faithful communities of Christ in a time of pandemic.
How do we think about being Church in a time of Pandemic?
Church is always the people, not the building. We are called to be open to the Spirit for new ways of ministry and mission in this time of physical distancing and social connection in different ways. During this disruption we are finding new ways of being church to ensure we live into the call of being “sign, foretaste and instrument” of God’s kingdom in our world.
As many of us are forced to consider new ways of doing and being church from our homes, the metaphor of “home” can offer life-giving perspectives and starting points for our new ways of gathering, care and mission.
God’s offer of Jubilee in Leviticus 25 sets out a program of pause and reset, every 50th year. God calls his people to justice, liberty and security for all. The land is left to be left fallow, to rest. “You shall return, every one of you, to your property and every one of you to your family”. (Leviticus 25: 10) It is a time to more actively care for kin and neighbour.
While the ancient economic program of Jubilee does not equate with our current experience of pandemic, we have seen our Church's response to this time "sheltering at home" characterised by care for the vulnerable, the marginalised and the unemployed. As we continue to work and worship from home, God's Spirit is at work in us and among us for the wellbeing of our communities, our families and the whole Earth community. May we be active participants of Jubilee in our communities, and in our world.
Many leaders, congregations and presbyteries are creating great resources for this time. Some of them are linked or reproduced here. This page will change over the coming weeks – and we would value your feedback, and suggestions for additional resources. Please contact Nigel Hanscamp at nigel.hanscamp@victas.uca.org.au
Mel Perkins (eLM, Lay Leadership) has collated some Mental Health resources to support mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Gathering again
Many congregations are considering when they might start meeting again for meetings, worship or missional activities.
The Synod has provided the following resources for Church Councils to use in making their decisions around this. It is imperative that you use the most recent information in making your decisions, and review your processes regularly. Remember that your presbytery can also assist you.
The Synod Covid-19 FAQ page – updated weekly, including:
Other information about gathering
- For Youth groups and their leaders, Bradon French has an informative video with things to consider before meeting together.
- Mat Harry offers some thoughts about using what we have learned in lockdown.
