As the COVID-19 pandemic shows no signs of easing, pastors and presbytery leaders across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) have had to re-think ministry in a time of social distancing. The Reverend Dr. J. Herbert Nelson, II, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the PC(USA), says he prefers person-to-person contact, but understands the risks.
Regardless to how long the pandemic lasts, Nelson has asked the Office of the General Assembly to be creative moving forward.
“One of the pieces that has been a significant part of OGA is innovation,” he said. “I have asked this office to look at innovation seriously and I’m thankful for what we did with the 224th General Assembly (2020) in the midst of COVID.”
The first online General Assembly was held in June after the pandemic forced Baltimore to cancel all hotels and conference space to make room for infected persons and treatment.