Dear GNJ Leaders and our congregations,
The following are essential actions and information for this week. Review the information and follow up as appropriate.
1. Information Session to Discuss Report is Tomorrow – For Clergy and Lay Members to the Annual Conference Session
On May 5 at 7:00 p.m. GNJ will host an information session for lay and clergy members to the annual conference session to discuss the recent report released by the Independent Financial Review Team. We encourage you to join this session as there will not be another opportunity at Annual Conference to discuss the report. Two additional information sessions will be held on May 12 and 18 to discuss legislation. For all details about these three sessions as well as more information related to Annual Conference, including how to register and FAQs, click here.
2. Clergy Session is May 13
Ahead of the 2021 Annual Conference, a Clergy Session will be held on Thursday, May 13 at 9:00 a.m. on Zoom. Please note that no registration is required. A link will be sent to all clergy next week. For any questions, please contact Soomin Lee.
3. New Jersey’s New COVID-19 Guidelines Now Starting Friday
Starting this Friday, May 7, the indoor room capacity allowed for funerals and memorial services in New Jersey will increase to 50%. Also, the outdoor gathering limit will increase from 200 to 500. By May 19, indoor capacity restrictions for churches are expected to be lifted. However, they will be governed by the requirement that a minimum of six feet of social distance between individuals and groups be maintained. As you continue to use caution in planning how you will operate for the next several months, please revisit our reopening guidelines and resources related to the vaccine here. For more information on funeral expense reimbursement from FEMA, click here.
4. May is Mental Health Awareness Month
May is the time to raise awareness for those living with mental or behavioral health conditions. The first step for spiritual and mental health is for leaders to take care of themselves and model for others best practices. Wespath is shining a light on mental health by providing resources for you and your congregations. Click here for details. Also, HealthFlex Exchange offers generous behavioral health benefits and an Employee Assistance Program. Click here for details.
In Christ,
GNJ Leadership