Faith Communities and COVID-19

Tips and resources for members and congregations during the COVID-19 pandemic

Please consult local, provincial, and federal public health agencies for the latest updates on COVID-19 that may affect your community of faith. Below are some resources to support you. Ministry personnel who are seeking support and resources during the pandemic can consult their regional council for assistance that fits with provincial health requirements and regulations. Remember: We are not alone.

Credit: mattthewafflecat, Pixabay

The United Church is accepting donations to support those in the global South who are at greater risk than ever due to COVID-19. Find out how Mission & Service partners are turning compassion into action for those who need it most. The World Council of Churches has collected prayers from around the globe for use during the pandemic.

Emergency Funding for Congregations
The Government of Canada, the General Council, and regional councils are offering support to congregations to manage their finances in this unprecedented time of pandemic.
- Make a Plan
  Assess your congregation’s situation, take short-term actions to increase cashflow, and set up online capability to help get through the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Government Emergency Programs
  Eligibility criteria and other details on the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) (extended to Oct. 31, 2020), and Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) for laid-off staff.
- United Church Emergency Support
  Information on the new United Church emergency loan program during COVID-19, and deferring congregational assessments.
Reopening Churches during COVID-19
Each council makes decisions on reopening for its areas of responsibility. The governing board of each community of faith should consult with its local public health unit, provincial health ministry, and regional council.
- Safety Considerations for Reopening during the Pandemic
  Guidance for those responsible for making decisions in all parts of the church, and things to consider before moving from one phase to another.
- Phase 1: Reopening the Building during the Pandemic
  Small groups may meet in person in small numbers, with social distancing and masks. Worship will continue to be online only, with some exceptions for outdoor worship.
- Phase 2: Reopening In-Person Worship during the Pandemic
  Worship and other activities resume in church buildings, with social distancing and other measures.
- Phase 3: Full Return during the Pandemic
  For worship and other gatherings, you will still need to consider the health and safety regulations of your province.
Governance during the Pandemic
Adapting the work of the church—pastoral relations, employment, congregational meetings, and more—during the pandemic.
Tools for Worship during COVID-19
Suggestions on using technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, music copyright, and more.
Worship Online during COVID-19
Many United Church communities of faith are sharing worship services online during COVID-19. Learn how to find or host an online service, tips on technology and copyright, information about online communion and offering, links to prayers, and more.
Stewardship, Finances, and COVID-19
What communities of faith can do right now to manage the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Congregational Finances during the Pandemic image

Congregational Finances: Wed. Mar. 24

Keep up to date on the latest news and advice for treasurers.

A Prayer for the Front-Line Workers

A prayer for the protection of workers and to give them our thanks during COVID.

A Prayer for Those Whose Life and Livelihood Are Threatened by COVID-19

A prayer for those struggling personally and professionally during COVID.

What Do We Need for These Second-Wave Days?

A prayer to hear, see, and clearly during the second wave of COVID.

A Prayer for Those Who Are Dying Alone because of COVID

A prayer for people dying alone during the pandemic.

Feeling Alone

A prayer for those who are missing the company of others during COVID-19.

Fighting Complacency

A prayer for those concerned about complacency in others during COVID-19.

Feeling and Facing Anxiety and Fears

A prayer for those feeling anxious during the second wave of COVID-19.

A man carries a large bag of rice and a yellow house is in the background.

Amazing Generosity during the COVID-19 Crisis

M4M 2021: Jan. 17. When COVID-19 struck, the United Church asked members to make a special gift to help those most affected by the virus. Your… continue reading

Cover of the 2021 Minutes for Mission booklet, renamed Your Generosity Matters

COVID Means Revamping Minutes for Mission

Minutes for Mission is changing in 2021. The new Your Generosity Matters booklet is being mailed to pastoral charges for the new year.

Downloads

Attachment	Size	Type
The United Church of Canada Emergency Plan (Mar 2020)	550.66 KB	PDF
Are You Ready for a Health Emergency? (Mar 2020)	115.08 KB	PDF
Breaking the Chain: Reducing the Spread of Infection (Mar 2020)	116.94 KB	PDF
Being Faithful during Cold and Flu Season (Mar 2020)	177.2 KB	PDF