An impressive set of resources has been compiled by the Presbyterian Church PC(USA) to offer guidance during the Coronavirus pandemic. These resources include worship, issues regarding resumption of in-person services, utilization of technology and how to provide support to the community.
The links shown are not necessarily specific to the denomination. They draw from a large number of sources. Many of these links should prove useful for church leaders, regardless of denomination.
Category: Church Covid Spread
A document shows John MacArthur’s church knew of at least a dozen congregants with COVID, but there’s no sign cases were reported.
The American Medical Association filed a brief before the Supreme Court. It identified five potential risk factors posed by religious gatherings.
- Enclosed spaces
- Large Groups
- Close proximity to others
- Long duration of exposure and staying in one place
- Loud talking and singing
In a recent Supreme Court case, physicians detailed for justices the inherent risks of in-person worship during the pandemic. Learn more with the AMA.
Source: 5 reasons why religious services pose high risk of COVID-19 spread
United House of Prayer for All People, in Charlotte, held large gatherings over a week in early October without enforcing proper coronavirus safety precautions, like mask wearing and social distancing. In the month and a half since, cases linked back to the church have steadily increased, hitting 213 as of Nov. 19, and deaths are now up to 12.
Source: COVID Outbreak at North Carolina Church Linked to 12 Deaths and More Than 200 Cases
At least 62 cases of COVID-19 were linked to the church outbreak during the course of the investigation, according to Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah. The outbreak originated at the Brooks church, but quickly spread throughout Waldo County.
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CMDA has issued a plea for congregations to voluntarily take actions to protect their communities.
“It is tragic to see Christians become even more reviled because we appear to care only about our individual freedoms and don’t care that we may be contributing to others getting this illness because of our selfishness. As Christian healthcare professionals, we will voluntarily restrict our “freedoms” for a time to help protect my neighbor.”
Many churches in our area continue to offer virtual services as cases of COVID-19 continue to reach alarming levels in Michiana.
Catholic churches are still holding mass in person but with precautions in place. However, outside of Catholic churches most are choosing to keep the congregation at home. https://www.wndu.com/2020/11/19/churches-looking-to-manage-covid-19/
Many faith leaders may believe churches are singled out for blame, but one Baptist pastor in Maine called for safety precautions after members tested positive for the coronavirus.
Source: Some Faith Leaders Defiant, Others Transparent Over COVID-19 Outbreaks