The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops commissioned a census on the effects of the Coronavirus on Pascha 2020 in USA Orthodox Christian Parishes.  It examines the sweeping changes in American Orthodox parish life that were triggered by the Coronavirus pandemic.

The report is based on a survey of parish clergy representing eight (8) Orthodox jurisdictions who completed questionnaires during April 6-13, 2020.  Among the questions addressed in this report are:
•        How have parishes adjusted their liturgical services and small group
          ministries to the new circumstances?
•        What help is most needed by parish clergy?
•        What is the financial impact of the pandemic on Orthodox parishes?
•        Which parishes handle the new circumstances better than others?

Some observations presented in this 14-page report are troubling (e.g., the “death” of religious education and small group activities, and the sharp decrease in giving in the majority of parishes), while others offer considerable hope (e.g., high percentage of parishes switching promptly to online services, the availability of sufficient financial resources in most churches to last securely through the summer if the pandemic continues).

And, of course, we welcome your feedback and suggestions, because it is likely that we will launch an follow-up study to address this urgent subject. It is a very unusual and challenging Holy Week for all our parishes and faithful. But St. Paul reminds us not to lose heart, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).

The report can be found here.

A joyous Resurrection to you and your parish communities.

Alexei D. Krindatch,

Coordinator

National Census of Orthodox Christian Churches
2020 US Religion Census (www.usreligioncensus.org)

The report, in PDF can be found .