• There have been a number of inquiries regarding Governor Ralph Northam’s Executive Order 55, particularly in regard to drive-in worship services. For many, these services have been a wonderful way for churches to gather during this time of social distancing. The recent Executive Order 55, issued this week, has raised questions about whether churches should continue to hold those services. We are grateful that Governor Northam clarified during today’s press conference that drive-in worship services are permissible. 

• We do want to share concerns expressed by the Attorney General’s office earlier this morning about the way some churches are not appropriately managing drive-in worship. There have been occasions when people are getting out of their cars, which is a clear violation of the order. In addition, some have been arriving after picking up people who are not members of their family that have been sheltering in place with them in their homes—another violation of the order. This is why some local authorities have told pastors they would be violating the executive order by hosting drive-in church. We encourage you to inform your congregation of the proper way to safely participate in drive-in worship, as the way in which we gather for worship in the midst of this pandemic bears witness to the Gospel we are proclaiming. 

• David Washburn will be keeping you informed about the CARES Act and its implications for your local church through our CARES Act webpage, dedicated to resources for your information. Of course, each local church will need to make their own decision regarding these funds. We will also keep you updated on what others are saying theologically about churches utilizing these funds.  

• As we have all experienced, details change throughout the day, which is why we are hosting a webinar at 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 3, with H. Robert Showers, Principal, Simms Showers LLP to provide the most current details about Executive Order 55 and the CARES Act. Register for the webinar.

• This is a difficult time and there are many unknowns. Yet I have been amazed at the resiliency of BGAV churches as you have responded to this moment of need. It is inspiring to hear the number of people churches are reaching beyond their normal Sunday gatherings through online ministries just initiated. One church shared their outreach has grown their attendance 10 times their typical Sunday morning worship. The growing concern for many now is how to keep a connection with all the new attendees after the crisis subsides. Thank you for your faithfulness, determination, and creativity. God has you where you are for such a time as this, and the gospel is being proclaimed in new ways to new people seeing renewed lives.  

• Your BGAV staff is available to you at all times. Please let us know how we can be of assistance. We will have a virtual Town Hall meeting Monday, April 6, at 11:00 a.m., where we will have the opportunity to speak with you in person and share helpful resources. You can register for the Town Hall and submit your questions ahead of time.