Author Stuart Kellogg, a retired TV station general manager, launched a social media project in 2020 to consider how the church could react to the pandemic, and he has drawn takeaways from that project for his book, “The Post Covid Church: An Action Plan to Thrive, Not Just Survive.”
Notably, Kellogg had an opportunity to study under Christian leader and founder of Prison Fellowship Chuck Colson, and this work points to Christian worldview concepts.
‘Turtle churches’ and new opportunities
As it relates to shutdowns, Kellogg describes a line between “turtle churches” that hunkered down and waited for a return to normal and those that responded to new opportunities. From his examples, readers will find a number of things churches employed — such as conducting services online while adding interaction among viewers and staff, but also using the simple technology of the telephone to call members.
The Mobile, Alabama author notes that an increase in isolation has produced mental health issues churches can help address, while congregations also can provide ministries to serve the community.
Beyond the quarantine
The book goes beyond times of quarantine, however. Kellogg cites research that reflects declining church membership and cultural influence before the pandemic reached the U.S. and delves into American politics and culture wars. Amid various challenges, a “post-COVID church” also must often navigate different views on health protocols or other related issues within the congregation.
