PRACTICAL WISDOM FOR LEADING CONGREGATIONS
 
Health professionals and the media call the COVID-19 virus a "novel virus." This new virus for humans has generated many novel responses around the world -- new tests being created, new restrictions being imposed, new vaccines being developed.

Amid all this newness, congregations have sought new ways to do ministry in a time of quarantines, cancellations and social distancing. Many congregations have been pushed to explore new ways to do ministry online. And while that may be difficult, online gatherings can be a rich way of serving our congregations' needs in this global crisis.

Online church is not entirely new. While it may be novel to a particular congregation, the notion of online church has been around for a long time. The history of online church goes back at least to the Challenger explosion in 1986.

 
RELATED: MINISTRY IN THE TIME OF COVID-19
We all cope with anxiety in our own way -- some of us by getting angry, some by withdrawing, and some, apparently, by hoarding toilet paper! Fortunately, some of us, including colleagues in ministry, are coping by moving toward the danger and figuring out new ways to worship and serve in the midst of a pandemic, writes a former Alban consultant.

 
 
MORE FROM THE ARCHIVE
And then the rules changed
Looking at the trends and patterns of American religious life, Alban author Hayim Herring wrote in 2013 that "one thing is clear to me: while some pockets of religious expression as we know them will continue to exist, religions generally appear ready for a significant reformation." 

Our new front door: How congregational websites communicate church vision 
In this 2008 article from Alban's Congregations magazine, Alban author Lynne Baab reflects on the importance of congregational websites as a vehicle for introducing visitors and guests to our congregation's sense of mission and purpose. COVID-19 has only underscored the importance of the digital presence of congregations. 
 
 
FROM THE ALBAN LIBRARY

Communication is integral to the mission of the church, but it can go awry in myriad ways, both obvious and subtle. Communication in the Church helps congregations create healthier ways for their members to relate to one another for greater personal and congregational success. The book offers practical guidelines to help readers become more effective in how they build relationships, lead meetings, experience trust, practice forgiveness, use power, and bridge cultures.

Communication in the Church distills the latest social science research for readers including clergy, lay leaders, continuing education planners, students, scholars, and others. Each chapter includes real-life scenarios, sensible guidelines, practical applications, and suggestions for further learning. This book aims to help readers communicate more effectively-from leading more engaging and productive meetings to preventing or addressing communication breakdowns. 

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