Eastern Region Convention Goes Virtual
This past week I participated in the virtual Eastern Region Convention. Superintendent Greg Twitchell and all those who helped did a great job setting up all the various parts of the meetings. Pastor John Tate shared two messages on “The Church in Crisis” that are available on the region’s website, aceasternregion.org. I was pleasantly surprised at the number of individuals participating. Many joined online through individual accounts and some at various churches in groups. During the meetings, all the delegates were able to vote, ask questions and make comments through instant messages. This is not a perfect way to gather, and certainly not a replacement for face-to-face gatherings, but in our current situation it was a great way for us to gather to share together.
Continue Reaching Out
Over the last eight months I have participated in numerous Zoom meetings and virtual board meetings for many of our associate members and transitioned to serving remotely part of my time for ACGC. Our churches have continued to minister and worship through virtual gatherings, outdoor worship, FM antenna local broadcasting and social distancing in their churches. I believe we must move forward in our ministry as local churches and denominationally in our regions, conferences and around the world. I have heard many people express the desire to wait to get back to normal or say that it is too hard to do all that is required to reach out, but we must work within our current circumstances. Our mission has not changed since Christ gave it to his disciples; the Great Commission and the Great Commandment are not optional. We are called to a mission and this pandemic gives us opportunities to fulfill that mission in new ways. I am excited about how many of our churches have stretched themselves, but we must continue and be purposeful in sharing the hope of the gospel to our world.