It's time to come home.

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, worshipers were forced to explore a different avenue in their relationship with God. Although often led by religious leaders through virtual services or personal phone calls, many found themselves alone in prayer.

A personal relationship with God is precious and essential, but there is strength and purpose in gathering together.

The rituals of service reaffirm the congregations’ beliefs — but by sitting together, sharing communion, listening to the Word, worshipers share in the fellowship and support each other. Their passion ignites service and the mission of taking care of each other and the community.

There are many examples of congregations reaching out to meet local needs. More than 10 churches in Butler County host or operate food cupboards from Concord Presbyterian Church in West Sunbury to St. Ferdinand Catholic Church in Cranberry Township. Several run or support shops, such as The Alcove at Saint Andrews United Presbyterian Church and the Society of St. Vincent DePaul, that sell donated or refurbished goods and use the proceeds to assist those in need.

Many churches in our county offer space for support groups and community groups to meet. They conduct programs for youths and seniors.

The force of goodwill extends around the globe. Among those supporting aid to Ukraine were bakers from Cabot United Methodist Church who raised $12,000 on March 19 and women from the small, but mighty Camp Run Presbyterian Church in Harmony who raised over $400 by selling vegetable soup and home-baked bread March 27.

To serve so effectively, churches need their members.

Yet many of the faithful are still sitting on their couches instead of in the pews.

A March survey by the Pew Research Center reported about one-third of adults in the United States say they typically go to religious services at least once a month. A third of this group, 1 in 5 Americans, said they have not physically attended a service in the last month.

According to LifeWay Research, roughly 25% of Protestant churchgoers have yet to return to church even though 97% of congregations are meeting in person.

Throughout the county, those who attend services also notice the empty seats. You are missed.

For Christians, Easter is the perfect time to revitalize that relationship with their peers. The solemn period of sacrifice leading up to the Resurrection is even more poignant with the isolation of the pandemic.

Join those worshipers on Easter morning raising the “Hallelujah.” Your hands, hearts and voices are needed.

— DJS