As the concern for coronavirus (COVID-19) is extended to U.S. cities, please join our Florida Baptist Convention leaders in praying for the safety and well-being of Florida Baptists, our churches and our communities.
We encourage Florida Baptist churches to rely on protocol established by our nation’s leaders who are following guidelines established by governmental organizations including the Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, and trusted medical experts, such as Johns Hopkins University.
Many of our Southern Baptist denominational agencies have suggested additional guidelines, including the International Mission Board and LifeWay Christian Resources.
As our local churches decide about how their congregation needs to react to the coronavirus, we urge you to establish a response plan and communicate clearly to your members.
Consider establishing a task force consisting of church staff, key ministry leaders and as well as licensed safety and medical personnel. This task force should be responsible for monitoring local conditions using information from local and state departments, the CDC and FEMA.
Above all, do not panic, look instead for reliable sources.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:6-7, NIV
