HOLLAND, MI(WHTC-AM/FM) — Churches, like schools, have announced temporary widespread changes in services, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Noting that the situation varies by community, Reformed Church in America, Christian Reformed Church in North America, the Roman Catholic Dioceses in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Lansing, among others, posted announcements on their respective websites.
“World War One, the Spanish influenza pandemic infected a third of the world’s population and killed 50 million worldwide,” wrote Lansing Bishop Earl Boyea. That pandemic killed more than 650,000 Americans.
All but the Kalamazoo and Lansing Diocese announced services should be canceled or limited. Rose Park Baptist in Holland Township announced a limited 11 a.m. service, cancelng all other Sunday events. All denominations ncouraged on-going prayers, for those of faith checking on friends and neighbors who may be isolated or medical vulnerable.WHTC will air regularly scheduled services though the churches will be closed to congregations: Trinity Reformed Church, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. today, March 15, 2020; Sunday Programs of Faith 10:45 to 11 a.m. and Hope Church services, 11 a.m. to noon.
Church officials encouage people to continue praying independently.
RCA officials announced non-essential travel for GSC staff and missionaries canceled through early June, with permission for staff to work from home with permission from supervisors. Any travel deemed essential requires approval from the Executive Leadership Team.
Large meetings and events sponsored by the RCA in March and April will be canceled or moved online. Staff are encouraged to hold smaller gatherings and meetings via conferencing software rather than in person. All staff have been told to stay home when they are sick. Staff who have been exposed to COVID-19 or who have traveled to high-risk areas must isolate themselves for 14 days and work remotely.
