Churches & Other Religious Groups-CoVid 19

Hat Tip to John West's Daily Big Threat Blog:

US Worshippers Grapple With Virus Burdens Others Have Borne
https://www.voanews.com/usa/us-worshippers-grapple-virus-burdens-others-have-borne

NEW YORK - A rising number of churches across the United States are making changes in response to the coronavirus outbreak, including a decision by numerous Catholic dioceses to suspend the serving of wine during Communion.

Thus far, there’s been no indication of any widespread cancellations of worship services. However, Jamie Aten, a psychologist who is executive director of the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, said it would be wise for faith leaders to start preparing for that eventuality.

“Some faith communities already ---CONTINUED---

Hat Tip to John West's Daily Big Threat Blog:

How American churches are dealing with coronavirus panic just weeks before Easter
https://www.businessinsider.com/how-churches-in-the-us-are-responding-to-coronavirus-2020-3

Church leaders are stepping up their own rules, including bans on drinking from the shared chalice of wine during the Eucharist ceremony, as well as discouraging handshaking. ---CONTINUED---

Louisiana church packed for services again despite charges against pastor amid pandemic
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/coronavirus-louisiana-life-tabernacle-church-packed-services-again-charges-against-pastor-tony-spell/

Central, Louisiana — Buses and cars filled a Louisiana church parking lot for another service Tuesday evening as worshippers flocked to hear a Louisiana pastor who is facing misdemeanor charges for holding services despite a ban on gatherings amid the coronavirus pandemic.

A few protesters turned out, too, including a man shouting through a bullhorn against those gathering at the Life Tabernacle Church in the city of Central, where pastor Tony Spell has been holding services. Another demonstrator held up a sign reading: "God don't like stupid." ---CONTINUED---

In my diocese Mass and all church groups and functions have been suspended. Some of the parishes are streaming mass. I read of another that was having Mass at the church but in the parking lot. They could tune in while sitting in their cars. I really liked that idea as one could be present but still respect the local officials request for social distancing.

The Easter Triduum is a very important week in my faith and it will be difficult for me not to be there. Up until a couple weeks ago I attended mass daily. Online or on TV is just not the same.