COVID-19 RESOURCE PAGE
This resource page has been created to answer questions and provide resources for
YOU, YOUR CHURCH GROUPS, and YOUR GATHERINGS.
ELCA CHURCHWIDE &
THEÂ FLORIDA-BAHAMAS SYNOD
While church looks different for many of us during this time, the Synod has worked to develop resources to help leaders and members stay connected and resilient during COVID-19. In addition to timely messages from Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, the ELCA website has a broad selection of worship resources, Bible studies, prayer ventures, and faith practices that can be used in your home or in virtual sessions with others. Visit www.elca.org and remember that we are #ELCAChurchTogether.
The Florida-Bahamas Synod has also compiled resources for individuals and congregations - including a list of churches who are live-streaming worship services. For additional information, visit the Florida-Bahamas Synod website here.
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CHURCHWIDE WOMEN'S ORGANIZATION
We recently received this message from Churchwide which they have also published in Bold Connections and have posted on their website and want to share it with you. As we are preparing to publish this issue of Tapestry, the number of cases and deaths due to COVID-19 in Florida continue to rise. We can only add our recommendation to seriously consider other ways to meet rather than in person until the numbers are down.
Use caution when planning in-person events
The churchwide executive board of Women of the ELCA strongly encourages congregational units to carefully monitor current federal, state, and local governmental orders and recommendations in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the recommendations of their synod.
All caution should be taken to protect the health of participants and their families. Where appropriate, postponing or canceling in-person events may be necessary. If in-person gatherings are being considered, the pastor and congregational council should be consulted.
Congregational units are encouraged to explore virtual opportunities for gathering, and the churchwide staff stands ready to consult on ways to gather virtually.
The churchwide executive board previously encouraged all synodical organizations, conferences, and clusters to postpone or cancel all in-person events through the end of 2020.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR MENTAL & PHYSICALÂ HEALTH
Right now, many people are practicing social distancing, engaging in self-quarantine or complying with safe-at-home orders to keep physically healthy and safe. The feelings and emotions associated with these practices can be overwhelming and stressful — and everyone reacts differently in these situations.
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Lutheran Counseling Services has resources to support the emotional and spiritual needs of the Central Florida community. LCS is accepting new clients and providing face-to-face, online and phone sessions.
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The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration offers suggestions on how to care for your behavioral health including strategies, resources, and hotlines to provide support for those in need.
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While staying safe-at-home, it is important to develop new daily routines that include time for activity and exercise. Schedule time throughout the day to maintain your physical and emotional well-being. Looking for ideas? Take walks outside or check out some of the blogs and online classes to stay active.