There’s No Going Back . . . or Maybe There Is

There’s No Going Back . . . or Maybe There Is is the October 2020 issue of Christian Standard, a print issue shaped by the disruptions and ministry questions of the COVID-19 era. Across the cover theme, editorial, and feature package, this issue examines how churches responded to shutdowns, reopening challenges, online ministry, financial pressure, and changing expectations for leadership in a season of uncertainty.

Readers will find articles on what COVID-19 taught rural churches, the financial impact of the pandemic on Christian churches, and the different approaches taken by urban, suburban, and rural congregations. The issue also looks ahead with forward-facing pieces on big shifts in ministry, rebuilding from the rubble, and four opportunities for every church in the new reality. Together, these articles frame the church’s moment not only as a crisis, but also as a call to rethink mission, innovation, discipleship, and community life.

Beyond the pandemic-focused features, the October 2020 issue includes ministry and outreach content on waiting for God’s timing, caring for street kids in Kenya, and Creswell’s legacy of care. The issue presents a broad but coherent picture of church leadership under pressure, asking how congregations can remain faithful while adapting to rapid change. For readers researching There’s No Going Back . . . or Maybe There Is, this issue offers a clear snapshot of Christian Standard’s October 2020 response to ministry in a disrupted world.