Coronavirus and the "Church"
Dr. Lovoria B. Williams
Last Sunday, as I sat in my living room preparing to join my church’s livestream worship, I reflected on how just five short weeks ago I was able to worship with my church family. I miss corporate worship- the warm hugs, friendly faces, handshakes, and serving. I asked myself, “when will things, return to normal” so that I can attend church again. But then, I was struck by the fact, that the building is not the church-the people of Christ are and where two or three are gathered, He’s in the midst. Although it may seem as though the world is spinning upside down due to COVID-19/Coronavirus pandemic, knowing that Christ is still the same brings me peace.
The novel coronavirus is raging across the globe. In the U. S., it has infected nearly 1 million and has caused nearly 60,000 deaths! This high number of death is double that caused by seasonal flu and the rapid rise of infection has overwhelmed hospitals. Symptoms appear 2-14 days after exposure with the most common symptoms including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms are body aches, chills, a new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, headache and diarrhea. However, what is most concerning is that the effects of Coronavirus are unpredictable. Whereas some people become seriously ill and die, others have no symptoms at all, yet they are highly contagious and spread the virus to others while unaware of their illness. Coronavirus is especially deadly to individuals >65 and those with other chronic conditions, like diabetes, high blood pressure, etc. However, Coronavirus is no respecter of persons- young, healthy people are dying also. Sadly, as is too often the case, Blacks have higher death rates than others. The reasons for this include persistent systemic iniquities, poorer health and employment in positions that exposes us to others who may be infected. It causes me grave concern when I see my brothers and sisters in Christ going about life as usual, gathering with others, shaking hands, and not wearing a mask. Although, we are “covered in the blood of Jesus” let us use common sense and not take grace lightly. Note, that there is no treatment or vaccine for Coronavirus. As Christians, we don’t live in fear, however, we all must take Coronavirus seriously.
We must protect ourselves by washing our hands frequently, avoiding face touching, wearing masks, staying at home unless essential, and avoiding crowds. The high rate of death among Blacks and the global infection rates, proves that rumors regarding Blacks being immune to Coronavirus due to our skin tone and discussion of conspiracy theories are pure fallacy.
Love from a distance. John 13:34 tells us to “A new command I give you; Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another”. We are the CHURCH, although we must practice social distancing, we must continue to practice love. In fact, we practice love by NOT gathering. Social distancing doesn’t mean social isolation. We must continue to minister to one another with activities such as: (1) mailing encouraging cards; (2) making telephone calls; (3) running errands and (4) checking on those who may be socially isolated; visiting their homes to talk with them from a distance [6 feet apart] or through a glass door. Youth ministry workers and youth can relieve young parents by hosting activities such as virtual bible studies, book readings, paint parties or show and tells. Note, however, that the ability to continue ministry activities requires the support of our tithes and offerings.
Prepare for our new normal. “Let’s not give up meeting together” ... Heb 10:25. Although we yearn for “normal” let’s face it, things will never return to “normal”. The Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic has redefined our image of “church” as we once knew it. Very soon, we will gather again. Right now, we must prepare to embrace a new normal that will likely include sitting spaced apart with our faces adorned with masks and avoidance of holy hugs. I envision more use of technology for ministry meetings and bible studies and a broader use of Livestream worship. Our new “normal” worship will be rich, spirited and above all else, it will be pleasing to God. Be encouraged, this too shall pass. While we excitedly wait for the day of our new normal worship, Let’s keep the “Church” alive through more prayer, praise and fellowship with our Creator. Stay safe and healthy.
Blessings,
Dr. Lovoria B. Williams, PhD, APRN-BC, FAANP
National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. H.O.P.E. Health Ministry
