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Dakota Classis - Regional Synod Report April 2020

Seth Sundstrom

Before Covid

In the weeks previous to Covid becoming our new reality, I was nearing completion of two Pastor searches (Dell Rapids and Corisica). Both have been put on hold - with final candidates locked down in their current churches.

I was also redirecting my energy to our D-Team, as our student numbers have increased again. Most of them are second career or transfer students under contract with churches. Now, with Covid and denominational uncertainty, we will need to discern how we practically train and ordain candidates for future ministry.

After attending the Denver Collaborative, I thought I would have to spend a lot more time on preparing our Classis for the 2020 ramifications.

New Reality

I’ve been frustrated the past few years with the unwillingness of many leaders to embrace 21st century technology. Suddenly, most are either new experts or asking me how to become one. Some of the terminology I’m using today, wouldn’t have made sense a generation ago. Things like:

• Welcome to Slack

• Let’s Zoom

• Are you streaming?

• What platforms are you using? (not for choir)

• How is your online giving?

A summary of my job description is, healthy churches/healthy pastors. My basic mission remains the same, but the strategy has changed significantly. I”m still trying to figure this out. It seems to me that there are 3 ways I can respond to the current crisis:

1. Denial - do nothing and wait for normal to return.

2. Adjust - find new ways, even if temporary, to assist churches and leaders.

3. Blaze Ahead - ditch old patterns and devote all my energy to the new reality and possibilities.

I’m convinced that number 2, with a little 3, is my best approach for our Classis. Some of our churches were well positioned to adapt quickly and harness the growth opportunity this crisis presents. Others are on the steep front of the learning curve and need assistance staying on alive and on track.

I continue to ponder and be inspired by the Acts 8 Church as they suffered the loss of normal and still advanced the Kingdom. I see this even as an opportunity and enjoy the challenge.

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