| Tips for Church at Home and Connecting with Others |
|
| We have all been affected by recent changes to daily life caused by the virus known as COVID-19. You are not alone in this, and we will get through this together. |
|
| Below are some answers to common questions about church at home, the sacrament, and maintaining connections with others: |
|
|
|
| What does it look like to worship at home? |
| While the administration of the sacrament has important guidelines (see question below), how you worship during this time can be guided by your own personal revelation. |
|
| Saints around the world are using some of the following resources to help them: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| How do we partake of the sacrament? |
| Every member needs the spiritual blessings that come from partaking of the sacrament. The administration of the sacrament must be authorized by the bishop (SeeΒ General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,Β 18.9Β andΒ 29.2.2.10Β ), and the First Presidency instructed that bishops counsel with their stake president to determine how to make the sacrament available to members at least once a month. |
|
| When a priesthood holder is not available in a home, ministering brothers can be asked to provide the sacrament to their assigned individuals and families. |
|
| Learn more about partaking of the sacrament at home. |
|
|
|
| How can we minister when we are supposed to maintain physical distance? |
| As we follow the recommendations of health officials, practice physical distancing, and stay at home when possible, you might wonder how to minister to others if you can’t see them regularly. |
|
| Here are a few ideas: |
|
- Pray for your families and individuals by name.Β Then act on promptings from the Holy Ghost as you consider ways to help others feel loved, included, and important.
- Consider a virtual visit.Β Video calls can provide some face time and fun.
- Talk with your ministering companion.Β He or she likely has some great ideas.
- Be a source of joy, optimism, comfort, and peace. Share a scripture via text. Or visit HearHim.ChurchofJesusChrist.org, and consider sharing one of the picture quotes or images of Christ.
- Call.Β Let them hear the sincere love and concern in your voice. “I miss seeing you! How are you dealing with everything?” Assess their immediate needs. Do they have food, shelter, supplies?
- Listen to themΒ and validate their feelings. Respond with compassion and understanding.
- If immediate needs exist, identify ways you can safely help, and relay any concerns to ward leaders.
|
|
|
|
| How do I manage my need for meaningful connection? |
| Finding yourself in isolation can be challenging. The following are some ideas of how to effectively handle the challenges of isolation: |
|
- Seek Godβs reassurance.Β Strengthen your relationship with your Father in Heaven through daily prayer and scripture study.
- Use technologyΒ to reach out to others (use video if possible) or learn new things. Consider activities likeΒ indexing, doingΒ family history, and creating memory books.
- Serve others.Β Many local organizations are in great need, such as blood donation centers and food banks. Many opportunities to serve and help your neighbors and community can still be accomplished while practicing physical distancing.
- Be physically active.Β Physical activity can help you sleep better, reduce stress, and manage uncertain emotions. If possible, get outside to enjoy nature.
- Make time to reflect, and then write down your insights. Reflecting on good memories can help you manage loneliness.
|
Guest Author
