By the Way: What will the post-pandemic Christian community look like?

By ROLAND WEISBROT on August 13, 2021.

When COVID-19 came and shut down our world, it took a very heavy toll on community.

Prior to the pandemic, I had observed that Medicine Hat was blessed with a vibrant and healthy community life. In fact, when I first moved here from Calgary in the autumn of 2019, I was shocked at how much this city had going on: whether it was in the form of arts and culture groups, historical associations, philanthropic and volunteer societies, or the plethora of clubs for specific interests. Thus, like many others, I was saddened when COVID-19 swept much of it away – at least for a time.

That said, I have been utterly inspired by the adaptability and resilience of many of these community groups as they prove by their actions just how important community is for human well-being.

This now brings me to the Christian community in Medicine Hat. Once again, when I came to this city, I was surprised to find such a lively and ecumenical Christian community. And while here, too, the pandemic has taken its toll, I nevertheless remain optimistic about the future.

At the end of a difficult and trying season, we are presented with a unique opportunity to reforge our Christian community in earnest. Christian community will not look the same after the pandemic, but whether that is for better or worse is up to us. Will we seek to build stronger, godlier, and more loving communities of faith? I certainly hope so and firmly believe that our God, even now, is pouring out “new spiritual wine” to nourish and grow our communities in Christ (cf. Mark 2:22). Therefore, the only question we should be asking is this: are we new wineskins or old ones?

Pastor Roland Weisbrot is the Associate Pastor at Victory Lutheran Church and the President of the Medicine Hat Ministerial Association