The coronavirus that caused the pandemic can spread from person to person or through contaminated surfaces. In most cases, the resulting illness is mild and comparable to the seasonal flu (influenza), but it can also develop more serious symptoms leading to severe illness or even death.

There is much information circulated online or by word-of-mouth about how to protect yourself, but not everything is accurate. It is therefore highly recommended to follow the guidelines of official organizations, such as government bodies or the World Health Organization (WHO) that has updated information here: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public

While we believe that God is ultimately in charge and can offer His protection, we urge churches and believers to follow government directives, especially if they issued restrictions on gatherings such as worship services. In Romans 13:1-7, the Apostle Paul encourages believers not to resist authorities and in Philippians 2:3-4, he exhorts believers to “do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

As gatherings of people are posing a higher risk of spreading the virus, we consider it an expression of love not to risk contributing to the pandemic by holding worship services if the government has issued recommendations not to gather in larger groups.

For alternative ideas for worship services, click here.