Updated People-to-People COVID-19 Statement for 2020

As the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, spreads to many communities in the United States and around the world, Global Ministries continues to monitor the impact of the virus and support efforts of global partners. The People-to-People Pilgrimage Program recognizes the importance of maintaining the health and safety of international partners and pilgrims as a priority and has updated its travel statement in response.

With a sense of great responsibility and following Jesus’ second commandment of “Love your neighbor as yourself,” the Program decided to postpone all pilgrimages for the remainder of the year. In other words, all pilgrimages planned through December 31, 2020, are postponed. While a sad and difficult decision, it is meant to protect already vulnerable and overwhelmed global communities. If you are planning a mission pilgrimage on your own, please consider postponing as well.

The Program remains strong in its commitment of bringing people together to listen, learn, and walk with one another. Currently in development are new opportunities for “virtual pilgrimages.” These virtual pilgrimages will provide opportunities to join in the work and witness of international partners, even while we cannot currently connect face-to-face.

To learn more about resources, news, and statements about COVID-19 from partners, mission co-workers, and staff, please go to our website at https://www.globalministries.org/global_updates_on_covid-19. Join Global Ministries in prayer and support of those affected by this global pandemic, and in finding creative ways to love and care for one another.

Thank you,

Lorna B. Hernández

Director, People-to-People Pilgrimage Program
Global Ministries
lhernandez@dom.disciples.org

 

This statement replaces the statement published in March.