UPDATES RELATED TO THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK
from TABCOM Executive Minister Mary Miller
TABCOM Staff Guidelines During Massachusetts Re-opening
June 15, 2020
During the COVID-10 epidemic, our TABCOM staff has been working hard and providing leadership excellence. As churches begin to re-open, we will be making decisions about how and when our TABCOM staff will resume in-person ministry visits.
In order to clarify expectations, we are sharing the following guidelines for Regional Staff:
- We anticipate that our TABCOM staff will continue to provide effective leadership through virtual communication methods. This will continue through the end of Re-Opening Stage 2, as defined by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
- When Massachusetts enters Re-Opening Stage 3, TABCOM staff members may begin to interact with churches in person at the staff member’s discretion. We recognize that each person has differences in their health and family situation that may impact their ability to respond to requests for in-person gatherings. TABCOM staffers are prepared to collaborate in assuring that needs are met in the best possible way.
- Region staff may travel for in-person visits with worshipping congregations or other church meetings if they are assured by the church that the worship service or meeting will be conducted in conformity with the MA Re-Opening guidelines. Additionally, if the Region staff person finds upon arrival that those assurances are not being honored, then the Region staff person is encouraged to decline participation. At a minimum, Region staff will not be present in an environment where social distancing, hand cleansing, and the use of facemasks are not in force.
- We expect that virtual communications will continue to be used extensively for the foreseeable future as a reality of our “new normal.”
These guidelines will remain in effect until September 1, 2020 or until MA changes the Re-Opening Guidelines. Thank you for all of your support during these unprecedented times.
Serving Christ,
March 30, 2020
Coordinating a Statewide Response to COVID-19
The Mass Council of Churches is encouraging churches to get this in to the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency by the end of this week (fill out online, quick to complete).
Church, we need you to fill out this form. In collaboration with the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), we are creating an interactive web map to identify organizations providing vital services to those most affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, especially those serving vulnerable populations. As this crisis goes on, we know more vulnerable populations will be in greater need of support.
To capture this information, we ask that ONE clergy person/designated leader only from each congregation/church complete this form. We only need one submission from each congregation. We are looking to identify feeding programs, 12-step meetings, parking lots, nursery facilities, and potential volunteers for spiritual caregiving, both in person and remotely. If your church has multiple locations, we ask that you fill out a survey for each location. This will ensure that locations will appear within the community that they serve.
Please fill out this form only once: https://massgov.formstack.com/forms/houses_of_worship_questions
Updates 3-24-20
ANNUAL GATHERING POSTPONED
Due to the COVID-19 Outbreak, we are postponing the TABCOM Annual Gathering, originally scheduled for May 1-2.
Our plans for rescheduling depends on when we are able to confidently schedule a large-group gathering, which is currently unknown. It is our hope to hold a one-day even in early fall. Please be listening for details.
TABCOM KIDS ART CONTEST
Attention TABCOM Kids! (also churches, parents, pastors!) We are having a Self-Quarantine ART CONTEST for TABCOM young people!
Please send us your drawing of your family sharing in online worship during the self-quarantine. We will post drawings here and winners will receive a $50 scholarship to a TABCOM camp (Grotonwood/Oceanwood/CYC) and a special treat for your family by mail!
How to enter:
1) Create a picture of your family joining your church in online worship. Any kind of art is fine!
2) Age 17 and under are invited to participate.
3) Scan or photograph your picture and email it to Executive Minister Mary Miller at miller@tabcom.org
4) This is a fast contest – send in your picture by April 1st!
Blessings! Mary Day Miller
A couple of great resources recommended by Executive Minister Mary Miller:
A Message from the Center for Career Development and Ministry
Can we help?
Pastors, would it help to talk with one of our coaches as you navigate through these uncertain times?
We know you are feeling the stress not only as this pandemic affects you and your family personally but also as you address the needs and concerns of a congregation that is depending on you for leadership and vision.
We know that many of you are worried about how your church can continue to pay you if this “stay at home” mandate continues for an extended time. We know that each day brings new challenges and fresh anxiety.
Can we help?
Contact me at exec@ccdmin.org and I’ll match you with a coach who can meet with you via Zoom video conference.
No charge.
We can get through this together.
Kindest regards,
Maggie Lewis, Executive Director
The Center for Career Development and Ministry
Coaching for Faith Leaders on Improving Virtual Presence – a webinar by Hartford Seminary. Notes and recordings can be found here:
10 guidelines for pastoral care during the coronavirus outbreak – Christian Century
Updates 3-17-20
My heart is full, as I see TABCOM churches and pastors responding to this crisis with such compassion, creativity, and faithfulness!
As anticipated, our COVID-19 situation is evolving daily, if not hourly. Here are some updates:
WORSHIP CLOSURES
At this writing, our Governor has limited gatherings to under 25 people, and virtually all of our churches have ceased gathering for worship in person. However, many are streaming worship services. If your church is not, you can virtually join worship within the TABCOM family. Our TABCOM Facebook page is gathering a list of places you can “tune in.” (on Facebook: the american baptist churches of massachusetts-tabcom).
Here is a link to some good info about live-streaming from Hacking Christianity: https://tinyurl.com/v9q7t3l
EXECUTIVE MINISTERS VIRTUAL CORONAVIRUS TOWN HALL
Our first TABCOM “Virtual Town Hall” was last Monday, with about 30 in attendance. We will be continuing to hold these “for the duration.” Join us to discuss ministry in the COVID-19 outbreak. Bring your questions, challenges, ideas, and laments and join us for conversation and prayer.
Town Halls will be happening on Thursday nights at 7PM and on Mondays at 1 PM at this “Meeting Room”:
EXECUTIVE MINISTERS VIRTUAL CORONAVIRUS TOWN HALL
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/904101157
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (646) 749-3122
Access Code: 904-101-157
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/904101157
CHURCH FINANCES DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK
An excellent look at church finances during the COVID-19 crisis from our friends in the United Methodist Church. Be listening for additional resources from TABCOM Director of Stewardship and Finance John Page.
The following list of ideas is specifically directed to financial leaders across the church to help with sustaining the church and its ministry (and perhaps growing it in areas) as we live through these Coronavirus days.
BEST PRACTICES FOR FUNERALS DURING COVID-19 by Amber Naylor
Follow the link to this Google Doc for helpful advice about funerals: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jp2i6bFvSTfLbDf0nu5QWsKI3aF_toK_uN1o0yvujEA/edit?fbclid=IwAR13JpRT8BZtO15HbA8_UFaikxS7b1fI4gbn8NFiE8ThaL-m7ylIZVNPFWo
FRESH EXPRESSIONS FREE WEBINAR
Our partners at Fresh Expressions are offering a free webinar: How Your Church Can Be Faithful During Coronavirus on Wednesday, March 18th 1:30PM ET / 10:30AM PT.
Fresh Expressions US and Missio Alliance are bringing together a scientist, a health expert and a church leader to help you navigate this complex issue.
You will learn:
- A basic science perspective that illuminates why churches should take gospel-demonstrating, crisis-response leadership roles
- Suggestions from a medical expert on how best to advise congregations about precautions and protocols that save lives.
- Cues for how to lead churches into following the Way-of-Jesus: loving neighbors, serving congregations, inspiring volunteers, saving lives and consoling the dying throughout this crisis.
REGISTER HERE: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vD-XF8JfTJ-rzjB1mQaTBA
WEBINAR ON PASTORAL CARE AND OUTREACH DURING COVID-19
The American Baptist Minister’s Council is holding a webinar on Pastoral Care and Outreach during COVID-19 this Wednesday, 3pmEDT/12pmPDT. At this writing a link has not yet been posted – check the Minister’s Council Facebook page or MinistrElife.
WHAT ABOUT THE ANNUAL GATHERING?
We are proceeding in hope that we will be far enough past the peak of the outbreak to hold our Annual Gathering May 1-2. Frankly, it is simply too soon to tell. We have spoken with the venue, and they will work with us to reschedule should It be necessary. A final decision will be made at least a month ahead.
You are all much in my prayers as we journey through these uncharted waters of faith and ministry. Church, let it shine!
Blessings,
Mary
Letter #2 – March 15, 2020
As anticipated, our COVID-19 situation is evolving daily, if not hourly. Here are some updates:
WORSHIP CLOSURES
Many of our churches have made the decision to suspend Sunday morning worship, especially our larger churches. *PLEASE BE AWARE that our governor has suspended ALL gatherings over 250 persons – this includes religious services. Those who are continuing to worship in person are implementing multiple recommendations to protect their folks. God bless you ALL!
Many of our churches are streaming worship instead of, or along with, live worship. If your church is not, you can virtually join worship within the TABCOM family. Our TABCOM Facebook page is gathering a list of places you can “tune in.” (on Facebook: The American Baptist Churches of Massachusetts-TABCOM)
TABCOM AND ASSOCIATION CANCELLATIONS/POSTPONEMENTS:
This list is changing constantly. Here is what we know so far:
• Our Fresh Expressions events have both been postponed – Including the Old Colony Vision Day/Spring Conference AND the Fresh Expressions Roundtable. They will be rescheduled, stay tuned!
• Boston Southwest has postponed their Association Gathering, originally scheduled for March 28th. Rescheduled date pending.
• The School of Ministry has changed their meeting schedule – students please connect with the SOM leadership.
WHAT ABOUT THE ANNUAL GATHERING?
We are proceeding in hope that we will be far enough past the peak of the outbreak to hold our Annual Gathering May 1-2. Frankly, it is simply too soon to tell. We have spoken with the venue, and they will work with us to reschedule should It be necessary. A final decision will be made at least a month ahead.
EXECUTIVE MINISTERS VIRTUAL CORONAVIRUS TOWN HALL
This Monday, March 15, Mary will be holding a virtual “Town Hall” meeting. Join us to discuss ministry in the COVID-19 outbreak. Bring your questions, challenges, ideas, and laments and join us for conversation and prayer. Grab a cup of coffee and join us at:
VIRTUAL CORONAVIRUS TOWN HALL MEETING with Executive Minister Mary Miller
Mon, Mar 16, 2020 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM (EDT)
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/388017405
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (571) 317-3122
Access Code: 388-017-405
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/388017405
FRESH EXPRESSIONS FREE WEBINAR
Our partners at Fresh Expressions are offering a free webinar: How Your Church Can Be Faithful During Coronavirus on Wednesday, March 18th 1:30PM ET / 10:30AM PT.
Fresh Expressions US and Mission Alliance are bringing together a scientist, a health expert and a church leader to help you navigate this complex issue.
You will learn:
• A basic science perspective that illuminates why churches should take gospel-demonstrating, crisis-response leadership roles
• Suggestions from a medical expert on how best to advise congregations about precautions and protocols that save lives.
• Cues for how to lead churches into following the Way-of-Jesus: loving neighbors, serving congregations, inspiring volunteers, saving lives and consoling the dying throughout this crisis.
REGISTER HERE: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vD-XF8JfTJ-rzjB1mQaTBA
Supposedly there is an ancient curse that says, “May you live in interesting times.” Church, we are there! These can also be times for God’s people to shine!
Blessings,
Mary
Letter #1 – March 12, 2020
12 March 2020
Dear TABCOM family,
By now we are all aware of the challenges facing us because of the COVID-19 virus. Our governor has declared a state of emergency and many of us are dealing with impacts on our schools, workplaces, and families.
As churches, we need to take action both to protect our communities and to reduce the anxiety and fear that people are experiencing during this public health crisis. In that spirit, I am sharing the following recommendations:
WORSHIP:
Churches face decisions, now and in the future, about cancelling worship services. We have been especially advised to avoid gatherings over 50 people; so our larger churches will have a more difficult decision. For those continuing to hold worship, these considerations are advised:
Greetings: At as we greet one another or Pass the Peace, we should do so without physical touch of any kind. A gentle bow or a nod can be substituted. In your sanctuary, spread out!, Create some distance between persons.
Offerings: Offering plates should not be passed among the people. Plates or baskets should be placed in a location where the people may leave their offering. Note: we have been advised that the virus cannot be transmitted on a check that is mailed in, or any other “snail mail” correspondence.
Virtual Worship: Consider live streaming or podcasting your services for those who elect not to attend, and to prepare for the possible cancellation of live worship in the future. An excellent resource from Hacking Christianity: https://tinyurl.com/v9q7t3l
As the weather improves, outdoor worship is an excellent way to greatly reduce risk.
Who should forego worship gatherings: Persons who feel, or within the past two weeks, have felt unwell or run a fever should be discouraged from attending church services or events, both for their own protection and the protection of others. If anyone in a household is unwell, everyone in the household should remain at home.
In particular, the following persons who are at particular risk from COVID -19 should take extra precautions: persons age 60 or over, anyone with a respiratory condition such as asthma or emphysema, anyone with an autoimmune disorder, anyone who is undergoing or has recently received chemotherapy, and smokers.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:
Cleaning: Make sure to wipe every surface that is often touched with disinfectant: doorknobs, handrails, the tops of pews.
Food service: Food served at coffee hour, feeding programs or other gatherings should be in individual servings. If food is not in individual servings, a person wearing a new pair of food service gloves should be assigned to pre-plate and serve the food. Serving utensils should be handled only by the person preparing and serving the food.
Virtual meetings are encouraged where possible. Church or program staff may be encouraged to work from home, provided their physical presence is not required. Some free or low-cost online meeting platforms include: Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts, GoToMeeting, Cisco Webex Meetings, and Microsoft Teams.
Pastoral Care: Please be aware that pastors may need to reduce or eliminate their physical presence in hospitals and nursing homes. Many facilities are already limiting such visits. We have had our first case of a US pastor contracting this illness. Pastors do not want to become unintentional carriers by entering high-risk areas; in addition many pastors have family members in high-risk groups, or are themselves at high risk. Prayer by phone or video can indeed be Spirit-filled.
During this time, please organize to check regularly on your elderly members, especially those who live alone.
Let us remember that these precautions are intended to protect the most vulnerable among us, which is our sacred trust as Christians. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)
Please be alert for announcements regarding TABCOM and Association Gatherings, as we anticipate that some meetings and events will need to be rescheduled.
This situation is very fluid with new information coming in several times per day. These recommendations may change in the coming days and TABCOM will endeavor to make the most current information and guidance available to clergy, church leaders, members and friends of our congregations.
Serving Christ,
Rev. Dr. Mary Day Miller, Executive Minister
Some information gleaned from publications by the United Church of Christ and the Episcopal Church. Thank you, friends!