Can Churches Survive a H1N1 Flu Outbreak?

Forget not the assembling of each other, how H1N1 or (Swine Flue) is affecting our churches. Most Christians and other religious groups gather for fellowship and meetings not only on Sundays, but there are weekly Bible studies around the world. With H1N1 rapidly swarming the population many churches concerned with H1N1 are speaking of, if not already putting into action, the canceling of meetings and or fellowships. Canceling church services or Bible studies because of H1N1 will not only protect people, but it could hurt people as well.

Churches concerned with H1N1 that are taking protective measures against the spreading of the virus with in a congregation could endure painful financial hardship not only because of economic times, but also with the possible lack of donations coming in on a weekly basis. The smaller churches are more in danger of financial breakdowns than the mega churches that are broadcasted on TV, worldwide. Not only would the finances of the church become affected by H1N1, but the elders' personal finances as well. If they are contributing their own personal finances towards the churches utilities due to lack of income, they may be putting their own financial situation at risk due to the H1N1.

An H1N1 impact on the church is not only limited to the church's finances but also what about all the people who are in need this season of gifts, food and clothing. Many families are still struggling financially this year, and with the H1N1 possibly luring them away from the church where else could they go for help. Take into consideration of the material donations the may be contaminated with the H1N1 virus, how will the church make sure they will disinfect potentially contaminated donations to protect others.

Last but most important, fellowship in the church is support that is needed by many people struggling with their own issues outside of church. If the assembling of those in church who counsel or spiritually direct others is not readily available, could this lead to a more disastrous result in one's life. People who attend church and other religious affiliations need hope and faith to get through daily struggles or even to handle the affects of H1N1 on their own family if someone in their family who became ill.

Possibly, by looking into these issues caused by the H1N1, the church can take more steps to ensure fellowship remains a constant and their congregation is safe financially and health wise. Some ways to prevent the spread of H1N1 maybe to offer flu shots at the church and set up an area when people first arrive for antibacterial lotions to prevent the spread. Ask that all donations be cleaned, or have a volunteer staff on hand to disinfect the articles donated to the church. We all can be survivors of the H1N1 virus, and not only because we are holding hands during prayer