The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about many changes to the ways churches operate and connect with their congregations. Many of these changes have been drastic and will have long-lasting effects to consider when moving forward. Church leaders are facing declining in-person attendance and challenges to their personal well-being as well as that of their staff and congregation. While these have been trying times, Covid-19 has also presented an opportunity for leaders to reach out and support those struggling in their community. In deciding how to navigate this uncertain terrain, training for church leaders can be a lifeline for leaders looking for individualized support in strengthening their leadership and the network of their church.
Dealing with Declining Attendance
In-person attendance was completely halted for a time as services moved online, isolating churchgoers from their communities and requiring that leaders dramatically shift their methods of connection. As in-person attendance becomes safe once again, it is yet to be determined whether people will show up at the same rates they had pre-pandemic. The coaches dedicated to church leader training deeply sympathize with the challenges unique to these times and have the tactical tools and expertise to guide leaders as they re-engage their congregation and inspire new members to join their church.
Meeting Medical Challenges
A study led by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research called “Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations” found that 83% of churches reported at least one member had tested positive for COVID, while 28% said that someone in the congregation had died from the virus. The strain of medical impact due to the virus has taken its toll, but church leaders know that they can turn to christian leadership training as an anchor for their well-being and a resource for skills to help them better support their staff and congregation.
An Opportunity for Service
While churches have faced significant challenges during this pandemic, they are also a vital resource to the community in these times of uncertainty and widespread distress. This has been a critical moment for reaching out to the community in new ways, showing up for those in need and developing innovative ministry solutions to the novel challenges that this Covid-19 virus has initiated. Participating in preparation as church leaders in the form of leadership training or pastor coaching is a practical approach to exploring the potentials that exist as a leader and letting them expand to fulfill the unique needs of present circumstances.