Whether a hurricane, tornado, blizzard, earthquake or pandemic, each church has a responsibility to prepare for the unexpected for its area. It does not matter how small or how large a church is, plans should be thoughtfully made for each of these and other potential situations. While we are not overly concerned with the present information regarding the virus, it would be prudent to prepare in the event that local, state or federal agencies enact social distancing or quarantine measures for a particular area. Thinking through how your church might be affected – from at risk members to outside ministries and outreaches – will help in implementing plans quickly should the need arise.
Guidance is being provided to employers on how to prepare for potential disruption during this current coronavirus (Covid-19) situation. In an effort to help churches prudently prepare should the present situation escalate into more outbreaks locally, regionally or nationally, we are including links to the most up to date and factual information we can find.
Remember, the current thinking by the coronavirus task force is that those with compromised immune systems, chronic illnesses, and the elderly are the most at risk. The present focus is to protect those populations. If you have a nursing home ministry, contact the facility and follow their guidance on ministering at the facility. Those who have hospital ministries also need to contact administrative officials to seek guidance on the protocols healthcare facilities may implement.
For your congregants, encourage families to be vigilant with hand washing protocols, provide hand sanitizer and tissues throughout the buildings, and consider changing greeting habits between church members for the duration of the potential risk. Encourage anyone who is sick to stay home, including those who may hold ministry responsibilities. Be vigilant in following cleaning protocols on property, especially in public areas, food and beverage areas, and restrooms. It may become necessary to temporarily suspend services if local authorities advise no social gatherings. Determine if there is a way your church may still be able to conduct an online service via a Facebook live video, YouTube channel or other social media mediums. Make those plans now in order to work out any technical issues and to provide the information to your members.
What You Need To Know About COVID-19 factsheet
What To Do If You Are Sick With COVID-19 factsheet
John Hopkins Coronavirus Tracking Map
How to Conduct a Risk Assessment for Exposure
Coughing and Sneezing Etiquette
Hand washing information including posters, stickers, fact sheets, and videos
Printable Posters for Staying Home When Sick and Slow the Spread of Germs Place these posters in nursery and children’s area, entryways, kitchens, and office areas.
OSHA Overview regarding COVID-19
Protecting Workers During a Pandemic FactSheet (OSHA) Although specifically for employers, much of this factsheet may be applied in a church or school setting.
We will continue to add information as it becomes available during this round of concern.
Feel free to share in the comments ways your church plans for emergency situations and continuing ministry.
