The Paris Independent
16
November 6, 2021
COVID&CHURCHES PARIS CHURCHES ADJUST TO VIRTUAL SERVICES By Carolina Saenz Finding resilience through faith and creativity during unthinkable times call for unthinkable measures. As The Paris Independent continues its quest to explore the effects of Covid on local businesses and organizations, The Independent turns its attention to local churches. Located in different areas of the city and showcasing a variety of methodologies, these churches serve as an example of resilience in the Paris community. Regardless of Covid restrictions, regulations, and even lockdowns it is safe to say these churches are thriving.
Sojourn Church Located on Scott Avenue in the north of Paris, Sojourn Church is inspiring. Looking beyond the inconveniences Covid has caused, Lead Pastor Jay Grimes explains how his church has adapted. Although it has not been an easy process, the Sojourn community has stepped up to the challenges faced. “As followers of Jesus we are servants. We serve Him by serving others. And so, within every crisis throughout history the church has always been
running to the fire rather than away from the fire”, says Grimes. By staying active within the community even beyond the physical building of the church, Sojourn members volunteered and served those in need. Some of the major adjustments included having to move towards an online approach by prerecording the service and eventually offering live streaming. And while Grimes does not see a future where the church is solely online, he admits that online streaming is here to stay. It makes service accessible to those who cannot physically come to church, and it also allows for the church to have an online presence. It will never replace being able to gather and meet in person, but it certainly makes one rethink what we have taken for granted. Another innovation at the church moving the service from the auditorium to the gym. By setting up a worship space at the gym, the church is now able to safely accommodate 150 people as opposed to only 50 to 60. Grimes emphasizes the importance of being compliant and adhering to regulations,
Sojourn Church Pastor Jay Grimes
while also admitting these were not always straightforward. The lack of clarity from the government was the most inconvenient part of this process but through patience and perseverance, Sojourn remains strong. In fact, Grimes notes an increase in members and credits this in part to Covid. Inspiring people to find something bigger than themselves, in their search for Jesus and to get their questions answered, many new faces have found Sojourn. And as a welcoming community, Grimes has just this message to share: “We’re open. We’d love for people to come.” Continued on Page 17
