Small churches face similar challenges during pandemic

The Rev. John Harwell has a twofold perspective on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected small churches in Southeast Missouri.

Harwell pastors New Life Christian Church United in Poplar Bluff, with a membership of 42, and First Christian Church in Doniphan, with 51 members.

He says the challenges for small churches are similar to the ones all churches are facing: keeping members connected and coming to an understanding about how to do ministry in a new way.

Some of the ministry challenges have included fewer people present to carry it out, and those who do help in person coming to church alone to do the behind-the-scenes work when no one else is around.

One aspect his congregations haven’t had to worry about is financial support.

“In both churches, people are still keeping up their financial commitments,” Harwell said, “as well as donations of goods for local ministries.”

A particular advantage of these two smaller churches is both own their buildings without any debt, and utilities and other expenses are smaller than many larger churches incur.

Another adjustment has been virtual worship services. Harwell’s sermons are simulcast on Facebook Live for those who cannot attend due to coronavirus concerns.

He thinks the online broadcast will continue for many churches—including his—after the pandemic.

“It’s 100% going to happen,” he said. “It’s a way of reaching people who can’t be there in person.”

The pandemic also has brought unique spiritual challenges, particularly the reduction in opportunities for direct outreach to those who are ill or alone.

“Not being able to see someone in the hospital or nursing home is terrible for them,” Harwell said, “and it’s terrible for us not to be able to go and see them.”

The necessity of social distancing has deepened some relationships, however.

“The most important thing I do is publish my schedule of where I’ll be during the week,” Harwell said. “Someone always calls or comes by.”

“People are frustrated and emotional,” he said. “I’ve spent a lot of time listening, and I’m thankful to do that.”

As far as what happens when the pandemic has ended?

“We are not ever going back to normal,” Harwell said. “We are going into something different, and I find that both scary and exciting.”