Churches: COVID-19 FAQ

This page was created to answer the most frequently asked questions regarding Texas Conference churches. The most recent information is at the top. If you have any questions not covered in this section, please complete the question form at the bottom of this page. Thank you for your continued prayers as health officials work tirelessly to contain this unimaginable challenge.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response Plan

Stage 1

If there are confirmed cases in Texas:

  • All worship, ministries and meetings in the church facility and remote locations remain active.
  • Extra sanitation and cleaning will be performed throughout the church building.
  • Communication between members with words rather than physical contact (handshake, hug, etc.) is encouraged.
  • Encourage those who aren’t feeling well to stay home.
  • Encourage handwashing and use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Share live streaming options for those uncomfortable with attending in person.

Stage 2

If there are confirmed cases within your county or area:

  • The church will remain open, but vulnerable people groups are encouraged to stay home and utilize online worship options.
  • No communal food (potluck, shared snacks, food platters, etc.) will be served on the church premises. Only individually packaged, single-portion foods will be provided, if needed.
  • Regular cleaning will continue with additional services as outlined below:
    • Disinfectant vapor spray foyer and sanctuary the day before services
    • Disinfect all doorknobs and handrails prior to services
    • Leave doors open throughout services
    • Disinfect all doors at the end of each service
    • Frequently check bathroom soap dispensers
    • Place additional hand sanitizers in each bathroom
  • Tithes and offerings will be collected in a special location in the sanctuary. Offering plates will not be passed.
  • Bulletins will be available at the entrance but will not be distributed.
  • Communication between members with words rather than physical contact (handshake, hug, etc.) is encouraged.
  • Encourage those who aren’t feeling well to stay home.
  • Encourage handwashing and use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Travel for church staff and church-sponsored ministries will be limited.

Stage 3

If there are confirmed cases in our church, school (if applicable) or upon advisement by local, state or federal health officials:

  • The church will be closed, and online viewing encouraged.
  • Club ministries (Adventurers and Pathfinders) will be cancelled until further notice.
  • All life groups, meetings, pastoral counseling, regular visitation, shut-in and assisted living ministries and all remote location church activities are cancelled or moved to online platforms.
  • No church-sponsored travel for ministries, groups or events.
  • Non-essential travel for church staff severely limited to emergency situations only.

Please note: Any area events (including club ministries events) should follow municipality recommendations such as Tarrant county recommended all gatherings of more than 250 people be canceled and strongly encourages all other gatherings be canceled.

  • What is the Texas Conference going to do about the COVID-19 concerns within our churches and ministries?

    • The Texas Conference administration is following the guidelines shared by Texas Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other organizations that are invested in both the health and well-being of our members and employees. The Texas Conference Communication & Public Relations (CommPR) department has contingency plans in place should the need arise to close churches for a period of time.

  • Will Texas Conference close any churches if cases of COVID-19 are reported within the facility?

    • As of this FAQ, there have been no known cases of coronavirus on any of the Texas Conference campuses—schools or churches, and no reports from members being affected. Professional health officials believe the risk to our community is low at this time. However, should any of our campuses report or suspect any cases of COVID-19, we will take the appropriate measures.
  • What are the steps churches will take if any member is exposed to the COVID-19? 
    • Churches will be evaluated on an individual basis. Currently, our protocol for school closure follows the local ISD directives; this will be our continued procedure. However, should the number of cases of COVID-19 spike, we will also make the necessary changes to our processes that are in the best interest of our members, employees and visitors. As a reminder, if a member or employee is experiencing any of the symptoms of the COVID-19, they should stay home and consult a medical professional.

  • Are the churches taking extra measures now for cleanliness? What is being done to keep churches clean and safe for members and staff?

    • All churches conduct routine cleaning. Extra steps are being taken to increase those sanitation practices. As instructed by authorities, our churches are also sharing the following tips for prevention with members and visitors:
      • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
      • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
      • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
      • Stay home when you are sick.
      • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, discard it and then wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
      • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

  • How long will churches be closed if a member, staff or visitor is affected by the COVID-19 virus?

    • Because we are still gaining knowledge about the COVID-19 virus, the length of church closure would have to be determined after consultation with health care professionals. We will act accordingly to ensure the safety of all members, staff and visitors.

Texas Executive Orders & Public Health Disaster Declaration

On March 31, 2020, Gov. Abbott issued an Executive Order implementing Essential Services and Activities Protocols. The protocols renew the Governor’s directive to avoid eating or drinking inside at bars, restaurants, and food courts, although use of drive-thru, pickup, and delivery for food is highly encouraged. The order prohibits visiting gyms or massage establishments, and expands to include tattoo studios, piercing studios, and cosmetology salons. It also extends social distancing measures to April 30, 2020, and schools will remain closed to in-person classroom attendance through May 4, 2020.

On March 30 and March 26, Gov. Abbott issued several self-quarantine edicts for travelers returning from certain locations within the United States. For complete details on which returning travelers are subject to these self-quarantine orders, see our Information for Travelers page. Instructions for self-quarantined travelers can be found on the CDC COVID‑19 Traveler Information Card.

On March 19, 2020, Dr. John Hellerstedt, commissioner of Texas DSHS, declared a public health disaster in Texas, because COVID-19 “has created an immediate threat, poses a high risk of death to a large number of people, and creates a substantial risk of public exposure because of the disease’s method of transmission and evidence that there is community spread in Texas.”

  • What are other sources of information and updates?

The following resources are available to help the public stay informed about COVID-19.

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