Pray, care, communicate - Evangelical Alliance offers coronavirus advice for churches

 (Photo: Unsplash/Michelle Jimenez)

The Evangelical Alliance is asking churches to care for the vulnerable and be innovative in how they operate during the coronavirus outbreak. 

It suggests six areas for churches to consider as they seek to meet the challenges thrown up by the pandemic, which are: pray, care, communicate, empower, innovate and respond. 

Prayers are being sought for those working on the frontline, healing for the sick, and wisdom for those in authority. 

Churches are encouraged to keep their congregations regularly updated, even if there are no changes, and to consider setting up digital befriending services for those who are self-isolating or social distancing. 

With food banks warning of challenging times ahead, the Evangelical Alliance is asking churches to consider setting up an extra donation station or arrange for extra volunteers to cover social care ministries. 

As churches assess how to continue running services, they are being urged to "empower" those staying at home so that they can "still feel like they are meaningfully part of the church".

The Evangelical Alliance suggests that churches may also want to consider moving their services online or meeting in smaller groups. 

"Think about creative ways the church can function during this time," it says. 

"Look out for great ideas online and share what's working well where you are." 

News
A brief history of Christmas bans
A brief history of Christmas bans

These days, Christmas is hard to miss and nearly impossible to avoid. But at various times it has been banned in different countries, including Britain. This is the story …

Organisers of Christmas evangelistic campaign thrilled with impact
Organisers of Christmas evangelistic campaign thrilled with impact

Organisers of this year's Shine Your Light Christmas evangelistic outreach have been "overwhelmed" by the response from local churches.

Reach out to others, says Salvation Army, as 1.8 million Brits set to spend Christmas Day alone
Reach out to others, says Salvation Army, as 1.8 million Brits set to spend Christmas Day alone

People are being urged to reach out after polling suggested 1.8 million UK adults will spend Christmas Day alone, even though they do not want to.

Another Christmas in hardship for Gaza church
Another Christmas in hardship for Gaza church

For Christians sheltering in the Holy Family parish in Gaza, there will be few comforts this Christmas.