Post-Pandemic Church

THE ANNUAL GATHERING:

HELPING TO FORTIFY THE POST-PANDEMIC CHURCH

By Rev. Karen R. Taylor

There is no doubt that the last two years have been some of the most challenging years in recent history, especially for the church and its congregation. Many thought the church would cancel out and seem to miss that we are commanded “not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). The church has never canceled and never will!

Even now, the task is to fortify the postpandemic church, which is why attending the Annual Gathering takes on significant meaning this year. The Annual Gathering allows you to mingle with ministry peers — people from different nationalities, languages, ministerial disciplines and backgrounds — with many translatable benefits to share. Sometimes it’s about connecting with someone who has inspired you, which can lead to finding your next mentor.

Each Annual Gathering is unique — developed around a different theme and focused on meeting the current challenges facing the various pastors, lay leaders and congregation members. Participants return from an Annual Gathering with new ideas and approaches that are impactful in meeting congregational and community needs. Much of the information presented will be unique, with eye-opening and heart-opening effects.

The opportunity to ask presenters and speakers questions about their ministry work expands our knowledge and offers solutions to challenges. You will hear ministry aspects that will be new to you. These could be new types of biblical software or new “terms” relative to ministry. I will never forget that it was at the Annual Gathering where I heard the term “Virtual Fellowship Hall.” This term has shaped much of our online and streaming ministry for the past two years. It’s also an opportunity not only to build your network, but to have access to additional resources and learning beyond your ministry interest.

The Annual Gathering has always benefited attendees, from seasoned to young and emerging voices making their mark on the ministry environment — especially given the amount of information readily available to us over two days!

Rev. Karen R. Taylor is the Assistant to Dr. L. B.West, the Senior Pastor of Mount Airy Baptist Church.