I mentioned in an earlier post that starting in Jan. that health based programs will be co-ordinating with faith based initiatives to participate in drills for national emergency pandemic. According to info now creeping out, I am sure plans have been in the works. I am willing to bet WT has known about this for some time and will also be participating. Perhaps this is why BS was dropped. Perhaps this is why faders are being called into account. Maybe no one wants to waste time on having to be "responsible" for those not in the 'inner circle'. (?)
Influenza is a threat that isn't going away and one Southern Baptists needs to take seriously.
Potential Impact to Southern Baptist Churches
The impact of an influenza pandemic on Southern Baptist churches could be substantial. A serious outbreak would cause significant absenteeism among staff, challenging the church's ability to remain open and to continue to minister within the community. Traditional church services would be dramatically altered as human contact would be limited and mass gatherings cancelled.
- Be prepared for heavy absenteeism in jobs that interact with "at-risk" populations, such as children, the elderly, or homeless. Workers may fear that working with these groups places them at a higher risk for exposure to infection.
Church Services
- Be ready to temporarily suspend physical contact, including shaking hands and hugs, as part of church services.
- Limit mass gatherings. This may include cancelling Sunday services, weekday events at the church, weddings, and funerals.
- Devise alternate methods of providing spiritual care, particularly to those who have lost loved ones due to the illness. This may include offering church services via the Internet or television and creating phone networks of prayer partners.
Disaster Services
- Plan with local emergency management and public health officials prior to an outbreak. Predetermine, as much as possible, the role and expectations for the church.
The Bible says "Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing." (1 Peter 5:2). One of the duties of a shepherd is to warn the flock under his care of danger. Educate your congregation and your community about the truth and myths of pandemic flu and encourage them to develop their own emergency plan.