This post is shared as a COVID-19 resource on our resource page at www.abc-usa.org/coronavirus. Visit this page to find helpful resources and information, and see regular updates from American Baptist regions and national partners.
May 22, 2020
CDC and White House promote new guidelines for reopening churches
The White House today encouraged state governors to freely allow churches to reopen based upon some new guidelines for safe practices.
Click here to download a PDF of the newest-released guidelines or go to the CDC’s Web site. Church leaders are encouraged to check with their state and local officials as to the current prohibitions or variances for faith-based meetings in their area.
The CDC also advises church leaders to not rush the reopening decision, and to have a plan in case a confirmed case of COVID-19 is later reported.
Don’t forget: we want to hear from you! – COVID-19 Survey
The members of the National Executive Council and Regional Executive Ministers Council are conducting a survey of American Baptist congregations to assess the impact of COVID-19. Your answers will enhance our national response to the needs and opportunities created by this global health crisis.
The survey should take approximately 7-9 minutes to complete. We appreciate you and we appreciate the time taken to fill out this survey. The deadline for responses is June 1, 2020.
Click here to take the survey!
IM Missionaries to Bolivia need your help for face masks
Our missionaries to Bolivia, JD and Rhonda Reed, recently sent a request for face masks to help with one of their ministries. They wrote:
“Since February, (the non-profit) House of Hope Bolivia has been operating from a deficit. Due to a drop in funding, coupled with the lack of offerings due to the coronavirus, as well as the cancellation of short-term volunteer teams, the ministry has gone in a bit of a hole. However, an interesting opportunity was presented to us last week that will increase funding and allow us to continue this vital ministry
We were presented with an opportunity to raise funds by providing masks for Wheaton College. For students there to return in August, the college must be able to provide each student with a cloth mask. If we provide the school with masks, they will give the House of Hope $10,000.” Here is where we need your help:
- We need 100 individuals, groups, or churches to provide at least 100 masks each
- We will provide the patterns (two types)
- The deadline is July 10th
For more information, please e-mail Rhonda Reed.
Has your virtual worship attendance dropped? This might explain why …
By Carey Nieuwhof
You’re already seeing the trend: After an initial surge in online viewing numbers when the Coronavirus shut down church buildings, online viewing numbers are dropping.
The spike was significant. Heading into Easter 2020, half of all churches reported online attendance that was greater than their in normal attendance would be.
Now, that’s no longer the case. [Click to read more …]
Happy Memorial Day!
Let us remember those who have gone before us, and blazed that path of faith and courage; let us cherish those who stand nearest us, and grant us smiles and laughter today; and let us continually offer thanksgiving to the Great Giver of Life Himself: our Almighty God.
— May you cherish this weekend with your loved ones and friends!
Your ABCRM Staff
Empowered Churches