In this season, many churches are seeking information to help recognize, plan, adapt and respond to the current COVID-19 crisis. For this reason, it's our desire to provide ample information pertaining to why churches should respond to the global pandemic and a recommended approach on how to do so. In addition to becoming familiar with the resources provided on this site, it is advised to also follow instructions from the World Health Organization (WHO), public health officials and your respective government.
COVID-19, standing for coronavirus disease 2019, is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. It was classified by WHO as a pandemic on March 10, 2020, signifying a potential devastating impact on the whole world. It is highly contagious, and currently there is no vaccine or treatment. Most people (roughly 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. According to WHO, around one out of every six people who get COVID-19 become seriously ill and develop difficulty breathing. The disease is most dangerous for elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, continuous cough and breathing difficulties; however, people may carry and spread COVID-19 without showing any symptoms.
According to WHO, COVID-19 can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, which are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Other individuals are then exposed when touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
Churches should consider responding in four main ways:
Here you will find information regarding the webinar Friday, April 3, 2020. During this global, online event, we will hear from world-renowned experts in the medical field who will give insight to the pandemic we are currently facing and will provide action steps we can take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 across the globe.
COVID-19 RECOMMENDATIONS WEBINAR INFORMATIONIt is not only our honor to serve you in the best way possible, but also our responsibility to provide resources you and your church can rely on during this time. Find below our papers providing recommendations for churches in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic. You can also click the link below to see the latest COVID-19 response impact report.
PENTECOSTAL DEVELOPMENT & RELIEF PARTNERS COVID-19 RESPONSE REPORT