Brothers and Sisters of the NCD,

During the month of April, our district will continue to send out weekly guidance for NCD churches on Tuesday afternoons. You can also access and share our weekly communication at ncdefca.org/blog or by registering for the NCD Zipline.

Here are this week’s recommendations for all NCD churches (March 31, 2020):

• We encourage every NCD church to honor and promote our Governor’s “stay at home” order (emergency executive order 20-20), which is in effect through April 10, 2020. This order includes an exemption for church leaders that reads as follows.  “Faith leaders and workers. This category includes officials, workers, and leaders in houses of worship and other places of religious expression or fellowship, wherever their services may be needed. This category also includes workers necessary to plan, record, and distribute online or broadcast content to community members.”
• In light of recently extended Presidential/CDC guidelines, we recommend that NCD churches plan to postpone all in-person congregational gatherings, including corporate worship services and in-person small groups, through at least the end of April.
• We encourage you to continue to monitor these primary sources for reliable information: MDH Coronavirus website, CDC Coronavirus website, the President’s Coronavirus guidelines and EFCA Covid-19 resources.

Many churches have a growing concern about the impact this situation will have on their finances. In addition, some congregations are wondering about the implications of the CARES Act for local churches. If your church leadership team needs coaching or support in this area, please reach out to someone on our NCD staff.

During any crisis, it is common for ministry couples to feel significant pressure and experience increased conflict in their marriage. Likewise, single church leaders may also experience similar challenges with their family and close friends. In light of this, we encourage you to reach out to us for short-term support and encouragement. In addition, we can help you connect with trusted Christian counselors who have expertise in serving ministry couples. Decreased rates and financial support are available if needed. Put another way, we love you and are here to help.

Finally, all of us are listening for new ways we can care for ourselves during this unique season. Along these lines, let me recommend the post Self-Care Reflections: This is Not a Sprint! This is a Marathon from our blog.

May God extend his comfort and grace to you as you serve and lead this week!

In Christ,

Brian Farone | District Superintendent | North Central District