How does one celebrate during a pandemic . . . when you can’t even meet together? Below are creative ways some of our MBA churches are planning for this year.
Elim, Beausejour
Pastor Mark Woods provided a brief video of the church being decorated. Each week he will light a candle in the Advent wreath, inviting people at home to participate with him by lighting their own candle. The Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services will be pre-recorded. Those who do not have internet access will be given a DVD with a brief personal greeting.
Ft. Richmond, Winnipeg
Worship services are conducted via Facebook Live and also Zoom, with members interacting personally via Zoom after the service. Elders will lead a brief devotional each week (Hope, Joy, Peace, Love) via Zoom, light a candle and invite those at home to also participate. Pastor Jim Mathew and family are planning special drop-offs, connecting with each person/family.
Grace, Ochre River
Like many churches Grace Baptist livestreams the worship service via Facebook (now from homes). Zoom will be used for more personal interaction and prayer, including lighting Advent candles. Their annual Christmas banquet (held earlier in December) will be held remotely, each person/family joining via Zoom and interacting with others in breakout rooms. Music will be provided by various persons. The evening will conclude with people praying for the church, community, government leaders and each other in breakout rooms.
McDermot, Winnipeg
Sunday worship (songs and message) are pre-recorded and available on the church website either late Saturday or early Sunday. A Zoom Advent is hosted Sundays at 11 a.m. so people can light their own candle at home, share thoughts about the message and interact. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services will be recorded, again available on the website. The Sunday, December 27 Zoom will focus on praise to God for His faithfulness throughout the year.
Mission, Winnipeg
Pastor Sig Seidel shared that their traditional Christmas Eve service will be pre-recorded and DVDs provided to their non-computer users, as well as being uploaded to their Facebook and YouTube sites.