Exclusive Online
March 2020

What Are the Consequences of Canceling an Off-Site Church Event? 
What churches should consider if they are under contract for a venue.

5 Questions Churches Should Ask Before Holding a Virtual Business Meeting 
How church leaders can ensure their decisions are valid if an in-person meeting isn’t possible.

Teachers at a Religious Preschool Not Considered Ministers 
California Appeals Court says the four-factor test for ministerial status in Hosanna-Tabor was not satisfied.

What the CARES Act Means for Churches and Church Staff 
How to navigate the government’s $2.2 trillion stimulus plan responding to COVID-19’s economic fallout.

An Overview of the CARES Act for Churches 
Key highlights from the government’s $2.2 trillion stimulus plan responding to COVID-19.

Q&A: Did My Church Infringe on Copyright When Using YouTube Videos in a Livestream Service? 
What church leaders must understand about copyright law when doing church online.

Your Church Can Be Reimbursed for Mandated Sick Leave Pay 
Since churches now must provide leave tied to coronavirus, this benefit may prove valuable.

Precautions and Protocols to Take When Responding to a Pandemic 
A medical professional and church leader explains how churches can respond safely and effectively.

Are Church Employees Eligible for Unemployment Benefits? 
Sorting through a complex area of law as churches weigh difficult financial decisions.

Navigating Technology in the Midst of the Coronavirus 
A seven-part video series with IT experts Nick Nicholaou and Jonathan Smith on how all churches can use technology effectively for worship and church office operations in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Video: Richard Hammar Explains 4 Keys Issues to Consider During a Pandemic
What church leaders should know about First Amendment rights, liability, and more.

Navigating Technology in the Midst of the Coronavirus: Electronic Giving
Insights and advice from Church IT experts Nick Nicholaou and Jonathan Smith

Navigating Technology in the Midst of the Coronavirus: Cybersecurity
Learn about best practices to protect data and avoid ransomeware.

Q&A: Handling Donation Funds for Mission Trips Postponed by Pandemic 
The church could be liable to the donors for not fulfilling the purpose of the gift.
Online Worship and Meetings
Ideas, insights, and advice on how to proceed as you shift more ministry online.

3 Steps to Determine If Government Actions Affect Public Gatherings 
Churches need to closely watch how local and state officials respond to COVID-19.

Legal Considerations for Coronavirus Guidance and Church Gatherings 
Government actions that impact constitutional interests must follow certain rules.

How New FMLA Changes Will Affect Churches During the Coronavirus Outbreak 
These temporary provisions affect church leaders throughout 2020.

What We Know: Tax Payments and Filings for Churches and Individuals 
How the coronavirus is affecting the current tax season—and beyond.

Recommended Reading
Coronavirus and the Church: The Latest News and Advice from Church Law & Tax

Top 3 Most Confusing Tax Issues for Clergy 
What new—and veteran—ministers and treasurers need to know to file taxes correctly and receive maximum tax benefits.

Responding to Highly Contagious Illnesses 
Ways to decrease the risk of infection and keep your congregation safe. Plus, link to the free PDF from Christianity Today, “A Concise Coronavirus Guide for Churches”

15 Things Richard Hammar Wants Pastors to Know
Insights to help you successfully navigate the complexities of church administration.