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COVID-19 ha tenido un gran impacto emocional y económico en el mundo en los últimos meses. El liderazgo de la División Norteamericana de la Iglesia Adventista del Séptimo Día (NAD, por sus siglas en inglés) está profundamente preocupado por el impacto de la pandemia en sus miembros, iglesias y otras entidades misionales. Con actitud de oración, la intención de la NAD es evaluar todas las opciones que puedan estar disponibles para sostener la misión de la iglesia.

COVID-19 has taken a huge emotional and economic toll upon the world over the past few months. The leadership of the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (NAD) is deeply concerned about the impact of the pandemic upon its members, churches, and other missional entities. It is the prayerful intent of the NAD to evaluate all options that may be available to sustain the mission of the church.

Our hearts struggle to accept the reality of death. Existence is such a persuasive experience that we simply cannot conceive of a world in which we no longer exist. As a small child I used to spend more time than a youngster probably should trying to imagine a universe without me: how is it possible that prior to 1969 I did not exist at all?

The 2.5-year online program will provide a focus on teaching in higher education and preparation for leadership positions in the social work profession. The program will be interactive and is designed to be accessible for working professionals. Classes will be taught in real-time using videoconferencing, online asynchronous coursework with a learning management system, and weeklong summer residencies.

Randy Robinson, treasurer for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America (NAD), recently spoke with Kimberly Luste Maran, an associate director of communication for the NAD, about his role, and how the division is functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The interview was conducted entirely online.

Even before his state issued a stay-at-home order to curb the spread of COVID-19, Desta Gelgelu, an economics professor, church planter, and pastor of the Oromo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, called his conference executive secretary for advice. Decisive action by local church leaders had an unexpected result — and blessing.

While society at large has taken a metaphorical detour in terms of its normal operation with the closing of businesses and schools, the needs of the marginalized remain — many are still without homes and/or jobs, require medical attention aside from care related to COVID-19, or need food and supplies for their families. Here are glimpses into three services operating within the North American Division that have remained committed to serving the disenfranchised population in their communities as they face daily evolving challenges and the potential dangers presented by the coronavirus disease.

When Stephanie Seay and “Christine” met more than 20 years ago on the job at an Atlanta nursing home, they were young, single, and relatively carefree. They became fast friends. Seay, the facility’s bookkeeper, was a practicing Christian, and Christine, the social activities assistant, was not. Marriage, children, and age rolled in and Christine began wondering about Christ, shared Seay. That’s when Seay sent her Message magazine.

According to the World Health Organization, the United States has 140,640 confirmed cases of COVID-19 disease as of March 31, 2020. Canada has 6,317, Bermuda has 22, and Guam has 58. I can only imagine the turmoil in the lives of those who have been affected directly because they or a family member are or have been sick. And it is concerning to know that all of us are at risk. This hit home when I was under voluntary quarantine after returning from a conference.

COVID-19 has forced everyone to adapt quickly. Many pastors are attempting to hold church online, or post sermons for members to view. Many are using smartphones or a webcam on a computer to get the job done. Here are some simple things you can do if all you have is your smartphone.