God is our refuge and strength,
    a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
    though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;

“Be still, and know that I am God!"
– Psalm 46: 1-2, 10a

We as a conference have been praying and fasting for the healing of our nation. We have engaged in this sacred practice because we know that our nation needs it and the potential for civil unrest exists. Therefore, as we pray, we are also preparing for the safety and security of those we are called to serve, love, and protect. While some may find this to be extreme, some commentators are predicting various degrees of unrest. Historically, churches have served as community centers of safety and hope.

This preparedness checklist is designed to help your congregation navigate possible crises as they may arise.

Preparedness Checklist

• Have you created your Church Disaster Plan?
• Do you have an active phone roster for leadership?
• Is your church prepared to be utilized as a shelter in compliance with the law?
• Do you have health practitioners (parish nurses, doctors, EMTs, health ambassadors, etc.) available or as a part of your ministry that you can consult as needed?
• Can your congregation safely, and in compliance with the law, house people for 24, 48, 72 hours or longer? If so, how many people can you house?
• How will you secure the property?
• Do you have a food pantry?
• Do you have water and/or food on the premises? If so, how much? How long will it last?
• Are you a certified food distribution site? If not, what is allowable on your property? (Consult Trustee Chairperson/another designated person).
• Will your congregation be open and accessible to the public? If so, how can this be done in compliance with federal, state, and local CDC Guidelines?
• Do you as a clergy/layperson plan to engage/attend polling locations that are not affiliated with a church? How will you do this safely?
• Does your church have an electronic security/surveillance system? Are you able to access it remotely?
• Does your church have an active safety and security ministry? Are there any active or retired law enforcement officers on it? Who is the designated person in your congregation with whom we can be in touch?
• Clergy who are planning to participate in polling activities should be aware of local election laws and polling guidelines?

Download checklist

Election Night Internal Communication Checklist Should There Be Unrest

1. Church leaders (which includes trustees) are asked to immediately contact local authorities as needed. (If you see something, say something.)
2. Pastoral leaders should contact their DS immediately and provide the following:
1. Are you in a safe place? Who is with you?
2. Has local law enforcement been contacted and informed of the crisis?
3. A detailed description of what is happening/has happened - are there any injuries to persons or property?
4. Make sure that laptops and phones are charged and ready.

 
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