Baptist Writer: Who Cares About the Risks? Let's Open Churches Back Up!

[NeoGreen]

https://friendlyatheist.patheos.com/2020/07/08/baptist-writer-who-cares-about-the-risks-lets-open-churches-back-up/

Baptist Writer: Who Cares About the Risks? Let’s Open Churches Back Up!
By Beth Stoneburner, July 8, 2020

Ignoring the warnings of medical experts, Christian author David Gushee penned an ill-advised article for Baptist News all about why we must reopen churches:

In short, he believes spiritual needs should take precedent over public health.

Despite surging COVID-19 case numbers in many states, I believe it is time for progressive, mainline and Baptist churches to reopen for worship services. I make this suggestion quite tentatively and with full awareness that it might seem counterintuitive. But I believe there are good reasons even now for churches to open, so long as we require rigorous health precautions that are being used in other settings.

When people’s lives are at stake, there are literally no good reasons to reopen. Especially churches, where pastors can deliver sermons over the internet while also taking in donations. Meeting in-person is a desire, not a necessity.

Let's say that again: ...he believes spiritual needs should take precedent over public health.

We can witness the power of belief... ...in every emergency room today.

[Srkdqltr]

1. So this is not a pro-life church?

[Ferrets are Cool]

2. I absolutely agree with this with stipulations...

Once inside, you must stay there together AND when you get sick, you must NOT call for help. Go right ahead, idiots.

[3Hotdogs]

3. Getting to the root of his article ---

Carlin: "Why is Jesus always broke?"

[Vogon_Glory]

5. JC made most of his sermons outdoors

Maybe these Baptists could take a hint, hint, hint--unless they think that'll lead to worshipping trees or Maypole dances.

[Vogon_Glory]

4. I like the idea of group worship, BUT WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH THE GREAT OUTDOORS?

If these believers want to practice communal worship, why not take it outside with masks and social distancing?

I miss my church services, too, but I'm over 65 with an A+ blood-type and I don't plan to go indoors until this plague is past.

[Merlot]

6. A little harder to pass the collection plate when you're social distancing.

It's about money...and the fear that if "believers" are left to their own devices for to long, they might start questioning or leave the church.

Nothing stops someone from practicing their faith at home.

[Permanut]

7. No problem..

"Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven."

- James 5:14-15