Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “Never let a good crisis go to waste.” Few people would debate that we’re in a time of crisis. And while we wouldn’t say the crisis is “good,” it’s worth reflecting on the statement.

Before covid, many churches and ministries had trouble breaking out of the mindset of “this is how we’ve always done things.” Needless to say, that’s less of a challenge today. And yet, status quo thinking lurks in the shadows every time someone talks about “getting back to normal.” 

That is why we shouldn’t waste the crisis. Our current challenges are an opportunity to break out of our ruts and be more creative. This may be the right time to make a long overdue change or try something out-of-the-box. For example, you may want to: 

• Rethink the way that you’re fostering spiritual growth in your congregation, with increased emphasis on personal spiritual practices and relational discipleship.
• Create a more robust digital offering. (I realize that everyone has upped their digital game, but is it where it needs to be? If you’re not sure, ask the digital natives in your audience.)
• Eliminate a worship service or a program that has been struggling for years. 
• Restructure your staff, eliminating or adding positions based on emerging priorities. 
• Leverage volunteers whose traditional roles are on pause but who still have time and talents to offer.
• Streamline decision-making by eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that slow progress and preserve the status quo. 

Two notes of caution. First, any changes should be consistent with your church’s or ministry’s core identity. Second, you may be tempted to ignore your board (or whatever your governing body is called) in order to move quickly. The last bullet above says “streamline,” not disband. While this is the time to be bold and creative, playing the heroic lone ranger is a fool’s mission. 

What opportunity is the crisis placing at your doorstep?

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