In reply to Paul K.

Pr. Koch,

I'm glad to hear that your Bible study has grown closer as a result of COVID. Yesterday I was speaking with a pastor who echoed words from Rev. Wurst in our June/July 2020 issue. Rev. Wurst (and this pastor) noted how COVID has been good for us as a church, primarily in helping us see and repent of our idols.

As for Joy's letter, I think we do well to hear and appreciate her admonition. While we might have grown together, online worship — in particular — cannot be a substitute for the regular gathering of God's people. Dr. Joel Biermann has addressed this very well in an article and podcast with Issues Etc. this last December. They're well worth reading.