Thoughts on churches and COVID-19 (CDC 50 person limit):
1. The issue is social distancing. Experts are saying that social distancing is one of the keys to “lengthening the curve” and keeping vulnerable people safe.
1. The issue is social distancing. Experts are saying that social distancing is one of the keys to “lengthening the curve” and keeping vulnerable people safe.
2. If the point is social distancing, then we should really think about pressing pause an ALL gatherings that we can. Possible exceptions where you can adequately keep 6 feet of distance between people. Like for meetings or whatever.
3. So I have a concern for leaders who are pressing the CDC on whether limits apply to churches and whether 50 people is a reasonable limit and how churches can gather in homes or onsite - I think we should do a better job getting with the spirit of the guidelines.
4. Health experts are recommending that we eliminate “play dates” for children, and models show why social distancing is potentially effective. So leaders should consider whether encouraging gathered groups of any size is being a good neighbor.
5. IMO within the next few days governors will step in to eliminate virtually all social “3rd spaces” anyhow.
6. IMO this crisis and these limits are likely to last much longer than 8 weeks before churches are given the “all clear.” Finances are going to be a huge issue.
7. Leaders that wrap their minds around this situation quicker are going to be more effective. Watch the news. Look at Europe. Look at the acceleration of our situation in the past 7 days. Things will get worse before they get better.
8. Jesus is on his throne. Churches have survived (and ARE surviving) much worse. We are tasked to care for the vulnerable. Most of our concerns are 1st world. Let’s pull together, pray, follow the leadership of the Spirit, adopt best practices, and shepherd well. Leaders lead.
