A database for comparative study
As COVID-19 has caused many churches to temporarily worship virtually, our gauges for the spiritual health of congregants have become muddled. Recent data also shows a decrease in online church attendance.
How can church leaders—pastors, deacons, and Bible study leaders—wisely minister to straying and wounded believers in these socially distanced times?… Read the rest
Most Rev. Anthony Fisher, Archdiocese of Sydney: Further Relaxation of Restrictions (July 2, 2020)… Read the rest
Dear Chevra,
As summer begins, we hope that this letter finds you well. We write at this time with an update to some of our previous communications, in language that we hope can be of use and guidance to you in your leadership during such challenging times.… Read the rest
There are compelling reasons to do all you can to retain your staff and support them well through the pandemic. While it may not be possible – or ideal – to maintain your historical staffing, we urge you not to let staff reductions become your immediate response to financial uncertainty.… Read the rest
While nearly every time is challenging to be a pastor, the current pandemic has made pastoring an even greater challenge. However, with challenges come opportunities. As old ways of pastoring are being eliminated or restricted, we need to be open to creating and embracing new ways of pastoring.
Prepared by Rabbi Pamela Barmash and Toby Schonfeld, Ph.D.
Please note that this is not an official responsum of the CJLS.
Our need for community is even greater during this time of pandemic and physical distancing, and even though holding davenning in person as a community poses a significant challenge, our role as klei kodesh and the needs of our communities for being together, even with physical distancing, call for us to rise to the occasion, where governmental and medical authorities allow, and where the architecture of our prayer spaces permit.… Read the rest
