Church, as we face the uncertainty of a global pandemic, we invoke the names of the saints, ancestors and forerunners who have guided the Church in times of plagues and illness before. Remember especially Rev. Absalom Jones and Bishop Richard Allen and the Black Philadelphians who cared for white residents during the yellow fever of 1793. Remember Florence Nightingale who founded modern nursing and declared “’God has spoke to me and called me to His service” of caring for the sick. Remember St. Rocco, who himself contracted the plague. Remember Keith Haring and give thanks for Archbishop Tutu and all who bear witness that the body of Christ has AIDS.
Church, we honor the unbelievably complex ministry you are doing.
We have compiled the following resources to help you through this time. If there’s something you suggest we add, please contact us at council@masscouncilofchurches.org
Rev. Kenneth and Rev. Laura join Rev. Dr. Almeda Wright for a conversation about the history and legacy of churches and education, especially the “radical pedagogy” of Black Church traditions. This conversation aims to spark our prophetic imagination of what our churches might be called to now. We aim to remember the past so we can reimagine a future that is more just, more holy and with more equity for all of God’s children. Dr. Wright is an Associate Professor of Religious Education at Yale Divinity School, having also served as a classroom teacher.
Join Rev. Kenneth Young and leaders from the Boston Public School system for a statewide conversation about what pastors need to know from school administration about their challenges during this pandemic. We will hear from Monica Roberts, Chief of Family, Student, and Advancement; Cyntoria Grant, Director of Family and School Partnership; Mary Driscoll, Elementary School Superintendent. What do school administrators wish local clergy knew? What kind of help is actually helpful? What programs either in Boston or statewide can we look to as possible examples of productive partnerships? And what did we learn from the shutdown in the spring that can help shape our response this fall?
Are you looking for mental health resources to support your congregation or yourself? 
Have you lost members/parishioners to COVID-19? Are you wondering how to cope or help others cope with the recent loss of norms? If so, watch this recording of our Facebook Live meeting with Dr. Jacqueline Dyer for clergy and leaders on coping with COVID-19. She gives models of grief and lament, coping mechanisms, and leadership on trauma care.
