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

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.