Resources for Congregations

As leaders, we serve our people well by communicating clearly that the vaccine is the best preventive we have for COVID-19. Even with vaccines being administered in our community, public health experts anticipate it will still take several more months to reach the vaccination goal. Therefore, faith leaders should plan wisely how houses of worship should gather in ways that continue being mindful of health and safety.

Relaxing masks mandates does not mean COVID-19 has disappeared. It does mean the tools we’ve been using to suppress it are working, especially vaccines. Health authorities continue to watch case numbers. We must remain watchful, remembering that some features of worship still present factors that favor transmitting the virus if we have significant numbers of unvaccinated people present. This includes singing, being in close proximity to others, and enclosed spaces.

Public health efforts to manage the ongoing presence of the virus in our community include vaccination, testing, contact tracing, and quarantining contacts of infected people. Cooperation with the efforts is essential. Ultimately, vaccines are the most effective way to mitigate risk.

Create a communication plan that embraces and promotes best health practices for individuals, including remaining at home in the event of any kind of illness. Address misinformation directly when you are aware of it in your congregation. Provide accurate information about vaccines, including where and how to get the shots.

Living into the calling to love one another and our neighbors while COVID-19 passes will show we are God’s people.