Covid-19 Update
March 13, 2020
Allegheny East Conference Coronavirus Action Plan
Updated May 22, 2020
In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Allegheny East Conference, after prayerful consideration, legal counsel and consideration of best practices, is outlining the following measures detailed below to promote the safety of our churches, schools, and surrounding communities.
Please note that this action plan reflects where we are now, but it will be adjusted and updated as the situation develops.
Gatherings
• The AEC Administration is aware that there are some states within our territory where stay-at-home orders and gathering restrictions have been lifted for faith-based communities. Within our territory, 75% of our churches are located in states that recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases. Because safety is our number one priority, AEC has adopted the philosophy of “no lives lost” due to the premature reopening of our church buildings. Our reopening process will be cautious, gradual, and strategic. Therefore, at this time, all Allegheny East Conference church buildings will remain closed until further notice. This includes special services such as funerals and weddings.
• We have secured a team of medical experts with whom we will consult in determining the safest way to reopen our buildings. Additionally, we will continue to monitor and evaluate information and guidelines from the CDC, WHO, local states, and other reputable agencies.
• Furthermore, in an abundance of caution, ALL congregations are to find alternate ways to worship other than gathering at the church or the usual meeting place until further notice. Some of those alternatives include the following:
Live streaming, video conferencing, free conference calls, etc.
Churchesthatwishtoengageinsmallgroupsministriesshouldonlydoso
virtually.
Work groups at the church (e.g. live streaming team or treasury staff) are to
follow the guideline of groups 10 or less.
IfsomeonewithinasmallgrouphasbeendiagnosedwithCOVID-19,(oris exhibiting symptoms), they should not gather until they have been issued a clean bill of health from their doctor and must follow all governmental/ conference guidelines for reintegration in public spaces.
• Church Gatherings Outside of the Church Facility. Churches must refrain from holding church-sponsored events at other facilities or outside spaces, such as parks, beaches, and public spaces, etc.
• Drive-in Worship Services: If you have an interest in conducting drive-thru services contact the Ministerial Department, each request will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
• Churches Live Streaming/Recording in Church Building. Guidelines have been formulated to ensure safety. They can be found on the visitaec.org/covid19