COVID-19’s Impact on Local Churches

Local Washington churches are no exception to the impact COVID-19 has had on the world around us. 

Many people can agree that COVID-19 has had an extensive effect on the community, but how have local churches experienced this pandemic?

“[It has] given us new ways to reach out to the community,” said Dan Schuttler, a pastor at Kent Covenant Church.

“Most notably… we stage a food giveaway on Wednesdays at noon that last for 90 minutes. We average over 200 cars each week. There are no prerequisites. Just show up and you get food. We are seeing a lot of the same people each week and beginning to start relationships with them.” 

While church communities try to band together as best as possible, COVID-19 has still succeeded in creating many challenges for these places. Pastor Mark Ray of Covington Community Church says the pandemic is having long-lasting impact on his church. 

“I do believe there are long-lasting changes as the result of COVID-19 and the fear resulting from it,” said Ray. 

“As the result of these fears that have deeply impacted the American psyche, we will see fundamental changes in people and how they choose to relate to others.” 

Ray also said that, because of this fear, he believes many people may never rejoin the congregational community. With the chaos our society is facing, many people want to lean into their faith for support but find it difficult due to the closures and lack of community togetherness. 

Both churches have seen significant attendance numbers drop and explain that the pandemic has been a big push to create a greater online presence. Both churches are offering online services at kentcov.org and covingtoncc.org. 

Counseling services are also available to Green River students who are struggling with this or any other issues. More information can be found at https://www.greenriver.edu/campus/campus-resources/counseling-services/. 

Photo Cred: Queven