In nearly every area of the country, all public gatherings have been suspended, affecting Christian Fellowship as it has other congregations. Like many others, Christian Fellowship church in Brooklyn, New York, decided to observe the civic mandated restrictions for the safety of its members.
In lieu of public meetings, the church is utilizing social media technology as a way of staying connected. The church has incorporated an interactive element into the worship service called “checking in.” This allows the members to talk and share experiences from the week. The sermons are intentionally shorter in order to accommodate this needed dialogue.
Also, the medical professionals are in need of attention because many are now working with COVID-19 patients, and they are afraid. To meet this need, the church has established a support group for all medical professionals, especially nurses and doctors. They meet, along with a social worker, via Zoom, to process their traumatic encounters during the week. This will be an ongoing ministry.
“I have been asked by the New York City Public Advocate, Jumaane Williams, to provide counseling and chaplaincy services for stressed city employees. The area of great concern that I have is for our members who are dying as a result of this pandemic. These families are in desperate need of ministry, and something will have to be done,” said Allen Martin, Christian Fellowship church pastor. “We are trying our best to provide ministry to the people of God. Much of what we are doing is experimental and we are learning as we go.”
—Communication staff, Christian Fellowship church
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