Relationships

Church Is Not a Building: How to Worship during Coronavirus

How to Worship together While Apart

1. Zoom

I held Bible study Wednesday night via Zoom. Some people accessed the study using the video feature while others dialed in and were able to comment and ask questions. They were able to fellowship, and I believe people enjoyed it quite a bit (except for the moments when someone wouldn’t mute their phone).

2. Stream Live with Limited Audience

Another option has the musicians, singers, and pastor conducting the service live with either a limited audience or no audience at all. Everyone at home can view the live stream and worship along with the musicians and singers. 

3. Text and Chat Features

Most people have mobile phones. Creating distribution lists and engaging people in conversations on a variety of Biblical topics would maintain a feeling of unity and cohesion until we’re allowed back into our corporate worship settings.

4. Social Media

Facebook and LinkedIn have “group” features. My church has used a closed Facebook group for many years to communicate with the congregation. We post official church business in the group, but we also post funny memes, Scriptures, and videos as well. Social media allows us to keep in touch and maintain corporate worship. We have to find creative ways to use it for God's glory. For instance, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter (the platforms I use most) have “Live” features. Take turns posting inspirational Live videos to encourage one another.

5. Phone Calls

The invention of the internet and social media has caused many people to forsake regular telephone calls. No one can transmit coronavirus over the telephone. We can call one another for praise, worship, and encouragement. We can study Scripture together or have a time of devotion based on a few verses.

My friends, as of today, no one knows how long we will be instructed to self-distance or quarantine in our homes. What we do know is that neither God nor His word has changed. God is still on the throne. He is still in control. And He still loves us. The same instructions He provided in His word thousands of years ago are good, righteous, and faithful for us today. God is greater than any virus. Don't waste another day worried about the virus. Spend this time in worship and adoration of the Lord. Spend this time virtually fellowshipping with the universal church using the technology with which God blessed us.


Aretha Grant serves her local church as a bible teacher and elder. She loves writing and is the author of Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously. Aretha resides in Hagerstown, MD with her husband and two youngest children. You can read Aretha’s blog at www.arethagrant.com.

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Alexander Dummer