Like most pastors and clergy throughout the nation, Lander University alumnus Dr. Ankoma Anderson is looking for effective and creative ways to stay in contact with his congregation during the coronavirus pandemic.
Anderson, who graduated from Lander in 2009 with a degree in chemistry, serves as pastor at Welfare Baptist Church in Belton.
"While we initially relied mainly on social media platforms during the first week of the pandemic, we've started to get more creative," said Anderson. "For our March 29th message, we had a 'drive-in worship service.' Our congregation members and visitors remained in their cars in the parking lot while I preached from the front of the church."
Welfare Baptist's tradition of celebrating communion on the first Sunday of each month was not interrupted. "We decided to hold a Bring Your Own Communion (BYOC) service, with congregation members and visitors bringing their own juice, and wafer or cracker to remember the sacrifice of our Savior. We want to have communion and experience community, while being safe at the same time."
While Anderson is also using the popular Kahoot quiz software for his Bible study lessons, he's also making sure parishioners who do not use social media in the loop. "As a pastor, I'm accustomed to writing letters. It's absolutely vital that we keep everyone informed, so I correspond with those unable to follow us on social media."