Coronavirus Resources
The Metro D.C. Synod staff have assembled some helpful resources from the ELCA, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization for congregations and its members.
Reopening Resources and Guidance
As you begin to consider when and how to be church with and for each other in person again, it is essential that you follow state and local recommendations for re-opening your buildings. We are providing a suggested list of considerations for reopening the physical church to gatherings. These resources are an accumulation of materials gleaned to help provide you the best information in making your decision as congregational leaders. This is a living document that will be revised as we receive updated and new information.
Gathered Resources on Google Drive
As Bishop Ortiz and the Synod staff have been identifying relevant resources for being church during a pandemic, these resources have been uploaded to a shared Google Drive folder for you all to review and download. You can access the shared folder by clicking the link below! Resources include local responses, federal responses, bible studies, worship materials and prayer
CARES Act Resources
The 900-page, $2.2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act became law on March 27, 2020. It is the third package enacted by Congress in response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. Below are various overviews of the Act that summarize how your congregation can benefit from this Federal program.
Overview of CARES Act for Churches
U.S. Chamber of Commerce details and link to application form
Powerpoint Slides providing a summary
Vanderbloemen Facebook Video providing overview for 501(c)3 organizations
Virginia Synod CARES Act Overview Webinars – see page 4
From the Bishop’s Desk on March 16, 2020
From the Bishop’s Desk on March 12, 2020
Bishop Ortiz addresses all Rostered Ministers of the Metro D.C. Synod with a letter on March 12, 2020 about COVID-19 and how we should respond in times like these.
ELCA Resources
ELCA Public Health Page of Resources
Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton has issued a statement in response to concerns about the spread of COVID-19. Martin Luther, said the bishop, “emphasized the duty to care for the neighbor, the responsibility of government to protect and provide services to its citizens, a caution about recklessness, and the importance of science, medicine and common sense.” Read the full statement.
Worship practices during times of public health concerns
Congregational Planning Checklist during Public Health Concerns
Live Stream Resources
How to Live Stream Your Worship Services – Best Practices
One License Offers Gratis Licenses for New and Existing Customers
Augsburg Fortress Temporarily Expands Licensing for Streaming Worship
CDC Guide for Community Planning
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has assembled a helpful guide for community- and faith-based organizations (CFBOs) plan for and prevent an outbreak within their communities. The CDC will update this page as needed and as additional information becomes available.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQS
The World Health Organization has assembled a thorough FAQ page for your review to help answer questions such as “What are the symptoms?” and “Do I need to wear a face mask?”
Help Prevent the Spread of Illness
Please continue to follow CDC and World Health Organization best practices to help prevent the spread of illnesses, such as:
- Staying home when you are sick, except to get medical care
- Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and throwing the tissue away
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, coughing or sneezing
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects multiple times a week (don’t forget your cell phones, laptops and car steering wheels)
Stay Informed
The Metro DC synod is continuing to monitor, review and assemble information as it becomes available in collaboration with the ELCA and government advice.
Please check back to this page regularly for updates and additional resources.