My church recently came up with a gradual phased-in plan for reopening during our COVID-19 pandemic. The first phase consists of meeting in smaller groups outdoors, which is a perfect way for Faithful Hands – our church’s men’s team ministry – to get up and running again.

That started me thinking about men’s team ministries around the country. I’m sure your church is discussing plans for reopening as well. Here are some suggestions on how to reactivate your men’s team ministry.

• Prioritize the health of your care receiver. Many of our care receivers, and caregivers for that matter, are in the high-risk category for coronavirus. If that is the case for your care receiver, be very conservative in how you meet with her (or him), if you meet at all. You may want to just work around the house without her coming outside to greet you.
• Focus on outside work. Don’t go inside the home. Stay outside and do yard work, exterior painting, cleaning gutters, etc. as appropriate.
• Social distance with other team members. Maintain six feet of distance at all times.
• Wear face masks. A must.
• Fellowship together outdoors. Some teams enjoy things like coffee and donuts, or even a full breakfast together before they work. Try doing this outdoors as a spread out group.
• Don’t get ahead of your church. Follow your church’s guidelines for opening up.
• Symptoms like fever or cough? Stay home! Also, recent participation in a large group setting would be a reason to stay home.

Have I missed anything? If so, leave a comment.

This post first appeared in NewCommandment.org.