Following new restrictions from the President's COVID-19 task force and the CDC, I think it's time we suspend in-person worship services in our churches until further notice. But that doesn't mean we stop being in ministry. In fact, we need to put our ministry in high gear!
Read MoreSince the coronavirus has been declared a pandemic, we need to creatively plan the means by which we can effectively communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ through this public health crisis. I believe that the church is the hope of the world. Many years ago, I met with Lyle Schaller who has written more books about congregational development than anyone I know. I shared with him my outlines for “4 Essentials of Congregational Development.” He reviewed it and suggested one more area which is “Clearly Defined Constituency.” He explained to me that the vision identifies the targeted people geographically, demographically, culturally, and spiritually.
Read MoreYou've probably heard by now the guidelines for private and public gatherings issued this evening by the state of Illinois to prevent the rapidly spreading Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Read MoreRev. Don C. Leo, age 85, a retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2020. During his ministry in the Northern Illinois Conference, he served Lemont, Wheaton: Gary Memorial, and the Midwest Ministry Development Service.
Read MoreAs we approach another first Sunday communion in April (most United Methodist churches observe communion on the first Sunday although some serve communion every Sunday) and Holy Week, and we continue to find ourselves in the midst of the coronavirus, we need to reflect with each other about how to be faithful in our times.
Read MoreAll of us are undoubtedly watching the news about the coronavirus, wondering how complacent or hypervigilant we should be. As I write this, I’m traveling and trust that I won’t be exposed to it by others. And others are trusting that I’m not exposing them. How do I live as a person of faith in such a climate? I think Jesus would want me to be as kind and courteous as I can to my neighbor in the next seat or standing in line...just like Jesus always wants me to be.
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