>>> New: COVID-19 Community Resources for Ohio – a useful graphic

>>In this important webinar hosted by the Minneapolis Area Synod and attended by ELCA bishops and other rostered leaders, Bishop Ann Svennungsen converses with noted epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm about COVID-19 and issues congregations should consider as they contemplate re-opening for in-person worship. When a transcript is available, it will be posted on the Minneapolis Synod’s COVID-19 resource page.

>> The NE Minnesota Synod Mental Health Initiative Team has compiled an excellent list of links resource related to COVID-19.  Topics range from assisting those who struggle with addictions, easing the anxieties of children and teens to ways to grandparent during COVID-19 as well as personal mental health tips. View this list, share it with your health ministry team, youth and family ministry leaders and bookmark http://www.nemnsynod.org/mhcovid19.html

>>Payroll Protection Program for small businesses, including congregations: The Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) authorizes up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses to pay their employees during the COVID-19 crisis. Click here for a fact sheet. Contact your congregation’s lender for more information and an application. There is an ELCA video explaining the program here.

Additional sites and links you may find useful:

Considerations for Remote Council and Congregation Meetings

Singing, the Church, and COVID-19

Cleveland Clinic: Returning to Sacred Spaces Amid COVID-19 (guide for faith leaders)