5,000 Equity Allowance
Travel 1,000
Professional Business Account 500

Broad Church, Rite II

Without a doubt, it was our ability to transition to virtual church during the pandemic. We are a church with a majority older congregation that is not particularly tech savvy to say the least. The transition started off with holding services via the existing tele-conferencing system which many were familiar with. The transition to virtual church via Zoom, was a challenge, (frankly a struggle), for many at first, but with the help of our ISP Verizon, and a few of the younger tech savvy members of the congregation, we made it. Our Sunday service is now attended in person and via Zoom with as many attending virtually as there are in person.

A somewhat recent conflict for our parish was our first female rector. Several members left our church over this, and many an argument/discussion were had within our congregation as well. Have we as a church moved past this? With a female Bishop leading the Diocese, I sure hope so. After our first female Rector retired, our next interim Priest-In-Charge was female too. She was well received and was instrumental in helping us navigate virtual church during the height of the pandemic. Is there still a resentment towards a female rector, I don’t know.

Our congregation has lost a few families and members due to change. Other changes have been accepted rather well. A change in Rectors and leadership of the church is an example of when it can go poorly. Understandably, people feel strongly about church leadership as they should! Conversely, a change from three services to one on Sunday went over rather well, albeit there was some drop is ASA initially. Over time, the ASA returned close to previous levels. Frankly, it all depends on what type of change and to what degree of change you are dealing with, that will determine how it goes.

The Rev. Canon Robert T. Phillips

rphillips@edow.org

(202) 441-8400