COVID-19 Resources

Revised September 14, 2020

This page provides all of the information for those in the Episcopal Diocese of Georgia is we seek to respond faithfully to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

When will we meet for in-person worship?

On July 1, Bishop Logue authorized Phase 1 guidance that permits rectors (and priests-in-charge) and vestries to make a decision for whether some in-person worship following strict guidance is right for their community at this time. In-person worship may last no longer than 40 minutes. There will be no singing, all participants must wear masks at all times, and keep more than six feet away from persons not in their own household. As July 1, this Phase 1 guidance is now in effect and will remain in effect until further notice.

These guidelines have been developed through extensive discussions with fellow bishops from across the country, the diocesan insurance companies, and research from top health experts.  Please know that while nothing we do will eliminate the chance of contracting the virus when attending worship and anyone attending needs to understand he or she is assuming that risk, everything we are doing is to lower that risk.

The guidelines have been distributed to church leadership as we move forward to resuming in-person worship. For the full recommendations and explanation of returning to in-person worship, visit this page with more information.

Where can I find online worship?
We have a livestream worship calendar listing all the online worship of the Diocese with links to the services. Click here: Livestream Worship Calendar

Virtual Visitation Customary – Bishop Logue’s customary in place for a way to be with congregations of the Diocese of Georgia even before we return to in-person worship. Revised July 20, 2020

Legislative Acts and SBA Loans

Application Guidance for the Paycheck Protection Program
The main features of the CARES Act for small businesses are emergency grants and a forgivable loan program for companies (including non-profits) with 500 or fewer employees to assist in making payroll and other other financial obligations. Churches may receive these loans and this document guides the congregations of the Diocese of Georgia with that application process.

This Legislative Guidance Document offers a summary of some of the new legislation that has been passed at a federal level together with some analysis and recommendations to work with our congregations and employees as we move forward.

Canon Easterlin conducted a webinar for those churches who have received the Paycheck Protection Plan funding. Easterlin was a review of the policy along with advice and guidance on next steps to prepare for the forgiveness of the loan.

To review the Power Point presentation with links, click here.

To hear Canon Easterlin’s voiceover for the presentation, click here.

We also offer these additional resources:

• Frequently Asked Questions regarding Faith-Based Organizations taking part in SBA Loans
• A Flowchart on Unemployment Government Support
• Church Alliance Summary of CARES Act Provisions
• Webinar slides on the Paycheck Protection Program
• Employee Rights Poster to email to employees as official notice
• Paycheck Protection Plan FAQs
• Resolution Concerning CARES Act and Indebtedness

Resources for congregation leaders

Congregation Budget Relief
The Diocese is aware that congregations are looking at their 2020 budgets and making plans to reduce spending in response to the current crisis. The document linked above offers guidance on available financial resources and payment relief efforts for congregations.

Remote Giving Options
Click the link above to learn about method available for pledges and direct donations from your congregants and community partners, which are helpful not only during this time of distancing, but perhaps particularly so now.

Tips for Video Recording and Streaming
Some tips for church looking into streaming their worship services.

Workplace Flexibility Guidelines
Click the link above for guidance on the key essentials for a successful workplace flexibility plan.

Strategic Planning During a Crisis
Questions and tips to use during strategic planning session to assist planning during a crisis.