“Five for Your Friday” is a recurring roundup of articles, videos, resources and more from around the web. Content included here is based on suggestions, input and feedback from Baptist State Convention of North Carolina staff, and it is intended to equip, encourage and challenge you and your church to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18) as you seek to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19).

Please note that information and content included here does not constitute or imply endorsement by the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina.

The coronavirus continues to dominate world news. How will churches emerge from the pandemic, particularly small to mid-size churches? Plus how can we pray and practice hospitality in these days? What about Easter? Learn more about these topics and more through the links below.

5 ways the church will emerge stronger from the coronavirus pandemic
The church has had to become flexible to make sure they adapt to the effects of COVID-19. Although there are many unknown factors that lay ahead, it is clear that God is strengthening the church and using them to be His light in the darkness. Aaron Wilson from Lifeway Voices lists five ways the church will emerge stronger after the pandemic has passed.

Coronavirus thoughts for small to mid-size churches
Even through the difficulties, churches regardless of size can help make a positive impact in people’s lives. This list by the North American Mission Board is helpful for pastors to encourage and care for their congregations during this season.

COVID-19 crisis prayers we need to pray more
There are many challenging realities that are hitting hard in people’s lives. Despite social distancing, we are able to pray for others no matter the distance. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary’s Chuck Lawless identifies 10 prayers that we all should be praying more during the COVID-19 crisis.

How to practice hospitality during a pandemic
It is clear that the current pandemic has caused much fear in our society. Fear makes it easy for people to be inward focused and fail at practicing hospitality. This article by Rosaria Butterfield develops a deeper understanding on what Christian hospitality should look like under COVID-19 limitations.

3 critical actions to prepare for a socially distanced Easter Sunday
Many are looking for hope in these troubling days. Churches have an opportunity to share the “most hopeful story ever” this Easter amidst limitations they have in how they gather. Former Southern Baptist Convention President James Merritt shares three important actions to take in order to prepare churches for having a socially distanced Easter Sunday that allows people to still hear the good news of Jesus.