COVID-19 Response
En Español
Daily church operations across the state and beyond remain in flux as the coronavirus pandemic progresses. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and every church will navigate its unique situation as it sees fit, Convention staff continue to provide resources to inform and inspire church leaders seeking wisdom and guidance to make decisions that honor God and protect the communities they serve.
Health
In order to stay safe and prevent the spread of the coronavirus, churches are encouraged to follow federal, state, and local guidance. Basic precautions include the following:
- Wear a mask
- Wash your hands
- Watch your distance (maintain social distancing of 6 feet apart)
For more detailed information visit the CDC website or review the latest guidance for houses of worship during COVID-19 crisis.
Relaunch
Some churches in communities with little or no virus spread have resumed normal daily operations, or are considering doing so. Churches preparing to relaunch may consider the following resources:
- Relaunch panel discussion video
- Sample checklist for relaunching in-person worship services
- Relaunch frequently asked questions
- Sample church relaunch video
Texas Baptist churches may receive discounted church supplies through our unique relationship with Kingdom.com.
Prayer
Texas Baptist churches are encouraged to continue to pray for the following:
- An end to the virus’ spread
- Frontline workers including healthcare, first responders, delivery, and supply chain employees keeping us safe and healthy
- The healing of those who are ill
- Churches as they adjust and continue to minister
- Those impacted by economic challenges
- The lost that they may come to know Christ
Click here for a detailed COVID-19 prayer guide.
As we continue to minister together through these difficult days of pandemic, we want our churches to know that we are here to help them through this crisis. The circumstances in which we find ourselves are unprecedented in recent history. Pastors are under considerable stress to seek the Lord's will for ministry and mission while keeping the flock safe. No easy answers exist. But we are eager to assist pastors, ministers, and lay leaders as they navigate this uncharted territory.
We encourage churches to give their pastors and ministers time-off to decompress and recharge. Our executive leadership team and staff would love the opportunity to fill the pulpit and give our pastors time for reflection. We are also available to offer love, encouragement and support for pastors who would like to discuss confidentially their unique situation. The bottom line is that our churches are not alone. We have a multitude of ideas, resources, and best practices to share with anyone who needs help.
Thank you for your continued generosity to support the Lord's work through the BGCT in Texas, the USA, and around the world. The Spirit is moving, and God is raising up His faithful ambassadors to share Christ and show love until all people know him.
Cooperative ministry in the midst of the pandemic
Churches, ministry partners, and Convention staff continue to minister to those in need during the pandemic. Watch the video below to see how, when your church gives to the Texas Baptist Cooperative Program, you are supporting frontline ministry efforts.
Download this and other Cooperative Program videos here.
David Hardage
Executive Director
(214) 828-5301
david.hardage@texasbaptists.org
"Our Texas Baptists staff continues to pray for and encourage our Pastors and churches as they navigate these uncertain and challenging days. Each church is unique and is responding to the Pandemic challenges as best they can for their area and church family. Please continue to follow the basic guidelines set forth by the Governor and your local leaders and do contact any of us if you have questions or needs."
Ward Hayes
Treasurer/CFO
(214) 828-5310
ward.hayes@texasbaptists.org
“The wisdom and creativity of our Lord will lead Texas Baptists well as we seek Him in each of our situations and churches. Communication among church leadership and with our congregation will remain critical as we seek to move forward through this crisis.”
In addition to these leaders, Texas Baptist staff throughout the state are ready to talk with you. Find your area representative here.
Covid 19
Second round of PPP available to churches
by Texas Baptists Communications on January 19, 2021 in news
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been reopened by the U.S. Small Business Administration to provide additional loans to nonprofit organizations, including churches, impacted by the COVID-19 crisis...
Important issues in the upcoming 87th Legislative Session
by Michael A Evans, Jr. on January 6, 2021 in news
Our political engagement extends far beyond the voting booth, and now the real work is about to begin...
Texas Baptists hospital chaplain among first to receive COVID-19 vaccine in Houston
by Bonnie Shaw on December 15, 2020 in news
On Wednesday, Dec. 16, Texas Baptists-endorsed chaplain and River Ministry missionary Silvia Briones will be one of the first people in Texas to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. ...
New church in McAllen focuses on discipleship and missions during the pandemic
by Victor Castillo on November 4, 2020 in news
“as far as the remotest part of the earth...
Taking proactive measures to protect your church and neighbors during the pandemic
by Kalie Lowrie on July 16, 2020 in news
“The more that you can do proactively when it’s sunny before things get bad, the better...
Resources
Second round of PPP available to churches
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been reopened by the U.S. Small Business Administration to provide additional loans to nonprofit organizations, including churches, impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sample Checklist for Relaunching In-person Worship Services
Church relaunch video sample
Curious about how to welcome folks back into your facility? Watch as Dr. Mark Kemp, pastor of First Baptist Church, Copperas Cove, gives instruction and encouragement to his church as they prepare to Relaunch their worship services. This video is shared with permission.
Discounted Church Supplies!
Kingdom, Inc., one of the largest providers of church supplies and equipment, is now offering Texas Baptist churches a 20% discount on select merchandise (prefilled communion cups, hand sanitizer and more).
CARES Act 2020: A Guide For Texas Baptists Churches
On March 27, the U.S. House of Representatives approved by voice vote the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Click here to view a helpful presentation to better understand how this legislation may impact your church or nonprofit.
Texas Baptist Pastor Relief Grant
The Texas Baptist Pastor Relief Grant is a convention-wide effort to meet the needs of Texas Baptist churches by providing short-term financial support to bivocational and small church pastors who have experienced economic difficulties through the loss of employment or church salary as a result of the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.
A coronavirus guide for Texas Baptist churches
Texas Baptist leaders compiled eight helpful suggestions for churches and ministry partners seeking to minister and care for congregations and communities during this time.
A coronavirus prayer guide for Texas Baptist churches
Ben Hanna, Church Health Initiative director, compiled this prayer guide acknowledging the severity of this crisis while also affirming the sovereignty of our King.
Resources for a successful church live-stream
Learn about resources available to help your church successfully live-stream services to your congregation.
Online giving options for your church
Dave Lyons, Support Services and Information Technology director, compiled a list of useful resources for your church to navigate online giving.
Free online giving through GivingFuel
Texas Baptists churches now have exclusive access to 6 months of free online giving through GivingFuel, the same fundraising software used by convention staff. Effective immediately, churches may contact GivingFuel to receive no-cost access to their Pro Package - normally $59 a month.
Free digital download of Faith > Fear Bible Study
Baptistway Press is now offering free digital downloads of our quarterly Bible theme study, Faith > Fear.
Online Coronavirus Training Resource
MinistryGrid released training to help churches prepare a pandemic response plan, specifically in regard to the coronavirus.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s coronavirus webpage
Read more about what you should know, situation updates, and additional information from the CDC’s coronavirus disease website.
Prayer Guide for Hunger & Care Ministries
Katie Fruge, director of Hunger and Care Ministries, shares ways for churches to pray for hunger and community cares needs in Texas and around the world during the present pandemic.