All of our lives have been significantly altered in an effort to limit the spread and impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Being diligent to practice social distancing and following the guidelines established by public officials is vital to our own safety and the safety of others.
However, as we engage in physical distancing practices, it is important to note that there is a big difference between social distancing and social isolation. Isolation and loneliness negatively affect our mental and physical health, as well as our overall well-being. Most of us have experienced a dramatic change in the amount of face to face interactions we have with people at work, school, and church. At the same time, more people are out walking in our neighborhoods than ever before. As a result, we have a unique opportunity to build connections with people who live near us that will make a big difference in their lives and in ours. The key is learning how to do this from six feet away!
Here are some safe and practical ideas for neighboring during this unique moment we find ourselves in. COVID-19 informed neighboring is the antidote to the isolation and loneliness that social distancing can lead to. Thus, there has never been a better time to meet and connect with the people who live right outside your front door.
"Right now, we don't need churches to create a bunch of new programs. What we need is for the people who attend those churches to simply be good neighbors and to do it in a careful and thoughtful manner." Karen Gieseker, Infectious Disease Epidemiologist, PhD, MS, MTS
Prayer
The great need and opportunity in this current crisis is to pray as we cry out to God together. Pastor Jeff will be setting up some Zoom prayer meetings where we can virtually pray together, keep an eye out for more information. Here are a couple of resources to help guide our praying together.