First edition King James Bible

Church Leaders Find What It Means To Lead A Congregation in Isolation

WNYC News | Mar 27, 2020

Earlier this week, President Donald Trump said he hoped to see church pews packed by Easter, April 12 — meaning he expected to end COVID-19 closures by then. But other federal, state and city officials in New York don't see that as possible. So religious leaders are preparing to hold services online for holy holidays like Easter, Passover, and Ramadan. 

One of them is Pastor John Flack, the leader of Our Saviour's Atonement Lutheran Church in Washington Heights. He says it's important to heed the advice of health officials and scientists during this time and stay inside, instead of gathering.

"I'm ready to listen to the people who dedicate their lives to keep us safe and protect us," he told WNYC's Jami Floyd.  "I'm going to follow their advice, and protect my congregation the best way I know how to do."

WNYC's Jami Floyd spoke with Pastor John Flack on All Things Considered. 

Be alert for scams. WNYC never asks for nor accepts money for coverage or interviews. Anyone making such a request does not represent WNYC.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

How Big Tech Lost the Midterms

The Brian Lehrer Show |

Postcards: Globetrotting, Time-traveling Notes of Love and Adventure; Remembering the 'Godfather of Techno,' Juan Atkins

All Of It with Alison Stewart |

Where Are We on the Autocrat-O-Meter Now?

Plus, the midterm success of the religious left.
On the Media |

Pete Buttigieg on the Democrats’ Sweep of Congress, and Where They Go from Here

The former Transportation Secretary, who is a likely Presidential contender, talks about how a Democratic Congress will try to make an impact, even with an angry lame-duck President.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |
YOU ARE ONLINE