The FAMiLY Leader’s Vice President of Church Engagement Greg Baker joined Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds by invitation for her daily live press conference on Friday, May 1. Baker shared an update on how churches across Iowa are working to responsibly reopen their doors and how many churches have been stepping in to care for needy Iowans during the coronavirus crisis.
Baker also gave some background on how the state of Iowa has come to partner with churches fur just such a time as this:
“For six years [The FAMiLY Leader Church Ambassador Network] has been working with churches to develop relationships with our elected officials, bringing together shepherds of the Church (pastors) with shepherds of government (elected authorities) with the purpose of building relationships as a person, as a shepherd, and as a partner in meeting community needs,” Baker said. “And this COVID-19 crisis has shown the need for that partnership.”
Baker cited examples of churches around the state that responded to specific needs identified by the governor. Following collaborative discussions with government officials, Iowa churches stepped up to staff food banks, conduct blood drives, deliver food to the elderly, produce personal protective equipment for medical personnel, and more.
“Jesus came to serve, and we want to serve as well,” Baker said.
Gov. Reynolds also expressed appreciation for churches that are taking virus-safety concerns seriously, even as they’re hoping to reopen their doors.
“In times like these, it’s our faith that gives so many of us the strength that we need, and I’ve been very impressed with how religious communities have remained connected even while they’re apart,” Reynolds said. “I want to thank all religious leaders for their thoughtful, responsible approach.”
Watch Baker’s comments at the governor’s press conference below:
Read TFL’s guidelines and recommendations for reopening churches in Iowa here.
