CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Domestic Disaster Response of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has prepared
resources for congregations in event of a flu pandemic. Although
avian flu is currently limited to fowl and is only occasionally
transmitted to people in close contact with infected birds,
infectious disease experts indicate that the virus could adapt
and spread among people, said Heather L. Feltman, director of
ELCA Domestic Disaster Response (DDR), in a July message posted
on the ELCA Web site. If this occurs, the world may be faced
with a flu pandemic, she said.
A document, "Responding Faithfully to Pandemic Flu," was
created to prepare congregations in the event of a pandemic,
according to the message. It refers directly to ELCA social
statements on what it means to be a public church and the roles
of congregations. The document is available at
http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/pandemic/faithfulresponse.asp on the
ELCA Web site.
"Congregational Planning for Flu Pandemic" is a resource
guide for congregations preparing for a possible pandemic. The
document includes information on communication, worship and
community outreach in the event of a pandemic. The guide is at
http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/pandemic/congregations.asp on the
ELCA Web site.
DDR has also compiled a "top 10" list of ways to prepare for
a possible pandemic, urging congregations to "reach out to
community groups and public health officials" and "consider the
special needs of the most vulnerable people in your congregation
and community." The list is available at
http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/pandemic/TopTen.asp on the ELCA Web
site.
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Disaster resources are available at
http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/resources/ on the ELCA Web site.
*Katherine R. Hinck is a senior journalism and religion major at
Augustana College, Sioux Falls, S.D. This summer she is an
intern with the ELCA News Service. Information provided by ELCA
Domestic Disaster Response.
For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or news@elca.org
http://www.elca.org/news
ELCA News Blog: http://www.elca.org/news/blog
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About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.
For information contact:
Candice Hill Buchbinder
Public Relations Manager
Candice.HillBuchbinder@ELCA.org
