Recent weeks have exposed the fear division, lack of trust in authorities, frustration and weariness present in Canadians today.
We hear the terms “anti-vaxxers,” “conspiracy theorists,” “fear-mongers” thrown about, and with each use of these terms, people are dismissed and the opportunity for constructive dialogue breaks down. In reality, both extremes have their “sources,” and it takes patience and humility to listen, to understand and to speak with grace.
Even C.S. Lewis has been brought into the conversation. He is quoted and his argument is misapplied to suggest that in the age of pandemic, we should act in the same way as Lewis suggested people do in times of threat of nuclear war – we should simply carry on with “normal life.” For further reading, see, “No, C.S. Lewis Would Not Tell You to Ignore the Coronavirus”
no-c-s-lewis-would-not-tell-you-to-ignore-the-coronavirus/
As leaders of local churches, we lead congregations that include both the vaccinated and the unvaccinated; those who wear a mask everywhere, and those who do so only if they must; those who trust our government and those who are convinced that COVID is being used to further government control; those who will line up to worship live and those who will choose to view from their homes for the foreseeable future.
The federal election and debates have only exacerbated the situation by the efforts to make vaccines a “wedge issue” in the election. Politics and science do not make a healthy combination.
While our churches are currently free to assemble for worship unvaccinated, unmasked and without limits on numbers, we must discern whether doing so is acting as responsible citizens. Freedom in Christ is very real. Limiting my personal freedom for the sake of my brothers and sisters in Christ, and for the sake of my neighbour is following Christ.
Leadership under current circumstances can be thankless and affirmation from those we serve may be in short supply. No matter what we do, we will displease some in our congregations.
Such circumstances can lead to weariness. We can lose passion. We can lose the will and the inner strength to lead and to innovate. We may feel that it is fruitless to plan when COVID policy and circumstances can change so quickly. So, are we leading, or are we simply coping as leaders?
Dan Reiland offers a couple of good articles on leading churches through this time of both pandemic and also beyond.
Speaking of a leader’s confidence, he writes:
I sense that most leaders have not lost their confidence, but for many, it’s been shaken. They are unsure and second-guessing themselves and their decisions. This can tend to literally change their thinking and behavior.
As to seeking to “holding on” to what we have in leadership,” he writes:
Protective, ”hold what we have,” leadership based on defense rather than offense is not the answer. It’s better to be good stewards of that which we have been entrusted and keep moving forward.
Here is the link:
covid-19-has-changed-us-9-questions-to-help-discover-how/
Reiland also suggests that church leaders in the “post-COVID” church need to take a page from church planters and lead with the realities of:
Such realities can either overwhelm us or challenge us to grow as leaders – to step out in faith, believing that God is bigger than COVID and that we have a message of hope to a discouraged world.
Here is the link:
preparing-to-lead-the-post-covid-church/
I trust that these thoughts and articles will be an encouragement to you as leaders – we want to build on this discussion as we meet for the Pastor and Staff Cruise on October 27 – see below!
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BC COVID-19 Policy Updates:
The BC Centre for Disease Control and BC Ministry of Health states:
“Worship services are exempt from both the provincial mask mandate that requires mask use in indoor public spaces and the requirement to provide proof of immunization against COVID-19 to access some events, services and businesses. However, faith leaders are supported to implement these additional measures in their in-person services should they desire to do so.”
Here is the full document: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/community-settings/faith-based-spiritual-and-worship-practices
In short, while wearing a mask is considered to be good medical practice and considerate of others, there is not a legal requirement for people to do so. We will welcome all who attend. Please be both considerate and mindful of those who are either compromised and/or specially cautious regarding COVID. Wearing a mask can be an act of servanthood to brothers and sisters who feel vulnerable to COVID.
In light of this, please also note and utilize the recommendations provided in the document “Guidance for Holding Low Risk Worship Services.”
COVID_public_guidance/COVID-19_Guidance_Faith_Based_Organizations.pdf
Children’s Ministries (K-Grade 12) are exempt from vaccine requirements: covid-19/vaccine/proof
Please also check current policy and resources on our LPD Website at: https://www.lpd-efcc.ca/covid-19/ Thanks to Josephine for keeping us up to date!
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Important News regarding the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) program has been extended through the end of September – and perhaps beyond...
More information can be found at:
recovery-hiring-program/crhp-compare-cews.html
For assistance or to answer questions, please contact Josephine at the district office.
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Upcoming Dates to Mark on Your Calendars:
LPD/EFCC Orientation
Monday, September 27
at the new EFCC Office on the campus of TWU
This is a requirement for all pastors and staff pursuing credentialing and/or ordination with the EFCC
– watch for details in the weeks to come.
Please register at: https://www.lpd-efcc.ca/events/
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“Introduction to Cultural Anthropology and Intelligence”
Sherman Lau, a member of Fort Langley EFC who has served with Mission Central will be teaching a course at Pacific Life Bible College this fall. This course will be helpful for anyone interested in developing their intercultural competency. Classes will be held on Friday, 8:30-11:15AM (the registrar may possibly change it to Wed or Thursday evening). For information, please contact Sherman at: slau@pacificlife.edu
The course may be taken for Credit or Audit.
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LPD Pastor and Staff Cruise
Wednesday, October 27
this “cruise,” we plan to return to our live time together via BC Ferries!
Pastors and staff, plan to join us for this time of fellowship, encouragement and equipping.
Here is some info: October_27_2021.01.pdf
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LPD Pastoral Staff and Spouse Retreat
– a weekend to relax and recharge…
November 12-14
at
Charis Camp: 51935 Hack Brown Rd., Chilliwack
Cost: $375.00 per couple (subsidies are available, so cost should not be a barrier).
– our theme will be “surviving and thriving in ministry,” and I (Rob) will be sharing from life experience, research and the Word about living out our pastoral calling with joy and effectiveness. Karen and I look forward to sharing this time with you!
Please contact Josephine or Rob at our LPD Office for more information.
Please confirm your registration by October 14 by contacting our LPD Office at office@lpd-efcc.ca
