NEW IBERIA, La. — With empty pews at churches comes empty collection baskets.
The coronavirus could have a long term financial impact on churches. Word of Hope Outreach World Church in New Iberia,remains empty inside with Sunday services being held online.
Pastor Zack Mitchell says the decision came quickly.
"With everyone else, we have had to make adjustments, and had to make them on the fly" Mitchell said.
Mitchell says before the pandemic, they set up an online collection. They provided training for members to learn how to use it, now offerings have increased.
"Our people have been giving and it's been really supernatural, really giving to the ministries, and for the causes" Mitchell said.
Not all churches are the same. MItchell is the President of the Iberia Christian Ministerial Federation. He says 8 of the 20 churches in his organization have seen a decrease in donations. Some unable to have an online or drive up style service. Now he fears some communities may lose their church.
"If a church goes away, then the concern for the community goes away. That part of the community is given over to other entities that may not have an issue with giving, but does have the love of Christ with it, that is really important" Mitchell said.
Mitchell says the Iberia Christian Ministerial Federation will help keep the church doors open.
"It enables me to and as well as other churches in the federation, to help in this cause of our hurting brothers and sisters that are in that state" Mitchell said.
Mitchell says there is an association for each area. To help other churches out it is best to contact the association.
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