These last four months have been some of the most unique and challenging times in ministry. Our nation and our world have been submerged in a pandemic with people suffering or dying of COVID-19, our way of life has been altered, our economy is in tethers and our churches have been closed. What else can we ask for a challenging time?
Nonetheless, here in our country the American culture is recognized for its resilience and never-give-up spirit. In the middle of the suffering, hospitals and medical personnel have provided outstanding care for the ill, corporations have donated services and food to the unemployed, the government has issued income reimbursements to families most affected due to layoffs and unemployment, and businesses have received financial support.
What has the church done during this time besides closing its doors in solidarity to prevent spreading the virus? Certainly, the safety and well-being of our members has been a priority for our conference. But this situation has forced our churches to find other means to carry on their functions and mission in light of the cancellation of public gatherings.
The platform of virtual technology has saved the day for our church. Even those congregations less prone to technology are broadcasting their services to an audience beyond the limits of their walls. Jesus’ vision for His church (Matt. 16:18) is becoming a reality.
We have carried our evangelistic mission by launching two virtual evangelistic series lasting two weeks each, entitled “Vislumbres de Esperanza”(Glimpses of Hope) and “El Heroe del Fin del Mundo”(The Hero at the End of the World). We praise God that 20 people have been baptized as result!
We have continued our departmental agenda holding a virtual Hispanic Women’s Retreat with an audience of more than 1,200 viewers. We held virtual youth programs every Sabbath organized by the FESJA (Youth Federation). We also conducted our Hispanic camp meeting in a virtual setting, and just recently we held our virtual family retreat. Each and every program was designed to keep our mission before our eyes so that this pandemic does not distract us from the fulfillment of our responsibility.
Also, in the middle of high unemployment in our communities, churches have pulled together to support those in great need by launching food bank initiatives and delivering food baskets to people who need them most. The amazing thing is that the church has continued to confront this challenge and overcome it without losing the financial support of its faithful members.
Jesus’ words are truly fulfilled, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matt. 6: 21). Let’s continue to strive until we ultimately overcome the situation and complete our mission.
Eduardo Jacobo is Hispanic Ministries coordinator for the Minnesota Conference.
