When Gov. Beshear classified churches as “nonessential” he hurt many in the Christian community. But a federal court struck down his in-person ban. Instead of seeing the church as a problem to be managed by the state, Beshear could have seen the church as an essential entity to help the people of the Commonwealth in a troubled time. The church is essential in that it provides comfort to the hurting, calm to the anxious, and encouragement to the weary. It is a place where families gather together and fellowship, and sit under the teaching of God’s word—where they learn how to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. Just as “essential” businesses were allowed to remain open to provide food and shelter needs, churches are just as essential to provide soul care for spiritual needs.