Today the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) released its official guidance for faith-based organizations (FBOs) regarding COVID-19. IBCF was part of a special committee convened by our friend, Diane Ujiiye, to assist with updating these important guidelines. In addition to common precautions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, these guidelines for FBOs are designed for ministers, parishioners, chaplains, imams, and other religious leaders and spiritual counselors on best practices during shelter-in-place.
With Easter, Passover, and Ramadan coming up, it is especially important to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Vigilance must be observed for activities such as weddings, baptisms, bar and bat mitzvahs, confirmations, worship services, rituals, rites, and unfortunately, funerals. The County recommends that if possible all events should be live-streamed, recorded, or taped. Relevant to spiritual care, the guidelines state: “Clergy and pastoral care (counseling, crisis intervention, marital counseling, etc.) must be conducted virtually (telephone, Zoom, FaceTime, Google hang-out, etc.).”
See the full list of guidelines and resources by clicking on the following link.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL GUIDANCE
This is a difficult time for everyone. Spiritual-care providers are no exception. It’s important to remember that there are resources available and that we are all in this together. If you need help or have questions, or you just want to reach out, we’re here.