Depending on the source, the world’s emergence from the COVID-19 pandemic could be four months, six months or longer. Regardless of how long it takes, the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Rev. Dr. J. Herbert Nelson, II, says the church needs to be ready.

The nearly yearlong pandemic has taken its toll on thousands of churches across denominations. Some have closed their doors permanently, while others have found new, innovative ways of outreach. Nelson believes the work should be underway now to address the church of the future.