Welcome back! For the last year, my website steveparr.net has remained dormant as I have focused on my new responsibilities in leading the Gwinnett Metro Baptist Network. Today literally marks one year since I started the new ministry. Although I started, literally, on the heels of the pandemic, I have loved this opportunity to minister alongside these churches and pastors. For those who are unacquainted, the Gwinnett Metro Baptist Network is Georgia’s largest association of churches at 140 strong. The pastors are great and you can learn more about the Network at www.gwinnettmetro.net.
Now that I have settled in, my intent is to post two articles each month where I will continue to focus on leadership development and church issues. I trust that if you follow along you will be a stronger leader. You can find over 100 articles already posted on the site and while books cost money, these articles are free. These are great both for your leadership development and to assist you in equipping others. And….speaking of relaunching: Churches have not only reopened for in person worship (an overwhelming majority have), but there are signs that the pandemic is receding and we may be seeing some light at the end of the tunnel.
That is not to suggest that the pandemic is over or that COVID will be eradicated. However, vaccines, herd immunity, therapeutics, and one year’s worth of knowledge is making our ability to live with COVID manageable. I am seeing church attendance slowly increase. With that in mind, I want to share a message I preached a couple of years ago called “Membership Matters.” It is very apropos as we consider the theological foundation of in-person worship gatherings. On-line delivery of worship will continue on and be stronger than before. But, should a person attend “in-person” if they are capable? Allow this message to speak to you about this issue. I am sharing it as both a model on how to preach on this issue and as an apologetic for those who are able to gather in person whenever and wherever possible with understanding and due respect to the decision of individuals to attend to personal health and safety during the pandemic. Here is the message. Enjoy! https://vimeo.com/303064401