Resuming Resources

CBF has formed a work group composed of pastors, CBF state and regional leaders and CBF communications staff to develop and curate resources to assist churches as they prepare for an eventual return to in-person church services and activities. As it does its work, the group will consult with public health and medical professionals across the United States.

Reopening? The Church was never closed

CBF Executive Coordinator Paul Baxley reflects on the critical ministry of CBF congregations, field personnel, chaplains, church starters and partners throughout the COVID-19 crisis. As governments look toward phases of reopening, Baxley writes about approaching the challenge of reopening our congregations.

“We must absolutely affirm that the Church of Jesus Christ does not need to participate in a reopening strategy because we have never been closed,” Baxley writes. “If the Easter miracle doesn’t teach us anything else, it tells us that we cannot be shut down.”

Read more and share this column at the CBFblog.

 
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Decision-Making Framework

Published June 5, 2020.
A values-based framework for making decisions about resuming church gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Document outlines values such as theology, quality, collaboration and well-being, along with important questions to consider.
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Recommendations for Resuming Church Activities

Published April 28, 2020

The United States Federal Government has recommended a 3-phase approach to reopening facilities and resuming activities. These phases are based on 14-day benchmarks for COVID-19 symptoms and cases. (Visit www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica for more information.)

The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship offers recommendations and considerations in the download below for churches and ministries in each phase, based on guidance, insight and consultation from public health organizations and medical experts. Schedules and plans for moving from one phase to the next should be made in consultation with local and regional public health officials.

Includes recommendations from CBF for worship, meetings and gatherings, hospitality, pastoral care, volunteers and staffing, and children in each phase of resuming church activities.


 

Downloads

 

Information

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CDC Guidance for Reopening Churches

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Interim Guidance for Reopening Churches. For guidance on reopening Day Camps, Schools and Businesses, see the Full Document.
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15 Considerations

This resource offers 15 quick thoughts churches should consider as they begin to resume gathering.
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Resuming Readiness

From CBF and CBF South Carolina. Lay the groundwork for a safe and successful resumption of church programming through planning in the weeks prior to re-launch.
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