Financial & Operational guidance for local churches and ministries impacted by COVID-19

Finance and administration staff across the Alaska, Oregon-Idaho, and Pacific Northwest Conferences are working together to track the impact of COVID-19 and answer questions local churches have.

They are also gathering resources to help churches to understand recently passed legislation.

Read more on the new Greater NW Area financial resources page.

The Northwest United Methodist Foundation also has a resource with some sample language for church finance chairs who are in the uncomfortable position of reporting negative returns on their church's investments: https://nwumf.org/news/2020/3/19/sample-investment-report

Bishop Stanovsky shares words of encouragement and gratitude amidst COVID-19 closures

Bishop Elaine JW Stanovsky shares a message of encouragement and gratitude to laity and clergy across the Greater Northwest Area of The United Methodist Church.

Local churches have suspended in-person worship through April 30, 2020, to ensure public health.

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Important notice regarding employee rights

The US Dept of Labor requires that all employers (all churches, camps, etc.) notify their employees of their rights under the newly passed Family First Coronovirus Response Act.

You can download the poster for free from the DOL website and post it in your workplace as well as send it to employees who are working remotely.

Valerie Nurr'araaluk Davidson named next APU President

It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that APU concluded its presidential search late last week with the appointment of Valerie Nurr'araaluk Davidson as the 12th president of the University and the first female to take on the mantle. Set to succeed President Onders at the end of the spring semester, APU eagerly awaits to start this next chapter.

Learn more about their next president, Valerie Nurr'araaluk Davidson

National News

Christ, the Lord, is risen today! As we step into Holy Week, we know with certainty that the coronavirus pandemic will not stop Easter from coming! Check out these activities for celebrating Holy Week at home as we rejoice in the Risen Christ. Photo courtesy of Austin Bond, Belin United Methodist Church. Read

Bringing the Stations of the Cross home

Walking the Stations of the Cross, a Good Friday tradition celebrated throughout the world, offers a step-by-step remembrance of Jesus' journey. Watch this video to gather your ideas for personalizing this time of prayer and reflection in your own home. Photo courtesy of Kathleen Barry, United Methodist Communications.

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How the CARES Act affects churches

The U.S. CARES Act is lengthy legislation intended to provide emergency assistance amid the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. Among other things, it expands unemployment insurance and establishes loans that churches might use. The General Council on Finance and Administration has compiled answers to frequently asked questions about the law.

Read FAQ 
Discipleship Ministries: The CARES Act may save your church