Alumni In Ministry During The COVID-19 Crisis

Meeting the Needs of A Community in a New Way

Reverend Morgan Schmidt normally leads a Presbyterian church in Bend, Oregon. However, as state and federal officials banned gatherings and ordered the closure of any non-essential businesses and organizations because of COVID-19, she quickly realized that her role in her community would need to shift. Rev. Schmidt turned her focus towards her community's immediate needs by starting a Facebook page called Pandemic Partners - Bend. This Facebook group allows immunocompromised, elderly, or otherwise housebound Bend OR residents to post requests for much-needed items such as food, toiletries, and supplies. Rev. Schmidt helps to connect those in need with those who are willing and able to provide help. In this way, Rev. Schmidt is living out her calling to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Creativity in a Time of Crisis

When all in-person gatherings were banned in New Hampshire due to COVID-19, Pastor Aaron Goodro took it upon himself to figure out a creative way for his church, First Baptist Church of Plaistow, to come together in a new way. Pastor Goodro had the great idea to hold a "drive-in" church service. Pastor Goodro leads this 30-minute service from a lifted platform in front of the church so that all of the church-goers who have parked in the parking lot can see and hear him. These services are being held each Sunday, all while maintaining good social distancing practices, such as keeping 6 feet between cars and ordering all congregation members to stay in their cars at all times. In these trying times, it is inspiring to see the creativity of our leaders in ministry.