Reformed theology’s commentary on the pandemic of 2020 (1)
Barry Gritters, editor of a PRCA publication, reflects on how Reformed theology illuminates the church's response to the 2020 pandemic, particularly addressing the tension between public worship obligations and civil health directives. The article examines how church councils and pastors shepherded their congregations during worship restrictions, considering livestreamed services as a temporary means of grace while acknowledging the grief of disrupted corporate worship. Gritters proposes that Reformed believers can find theological lessons and perspective on this crisis through the lens of Reformed doctrine.
In the almost 100 years of the PRCA's existence we have endured trials, but none quite like the present pandemic and the consequences. For nine weeks now (May 15), churches have been unable to assemble for public worship. The initial shock has worn off, giving way to discouragement for some, frustration and sometimes anger for others. The pandemic has forced consistories to face difficult questions, not the least of which is whether this is a question of obeying God ("Assemble for worship on my...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org