WACO, Texas — Churches in Central Texas are closed due to orders by Governor Greg Abbott to limit large public gatherings and some are noticing a difference financially.
First Baptist Church Waco, built in 1851, is now only streaming Sunday service virtually after having to close down due to the coronavirus outbreak, but a concern for many is a drop in tithes or donations.
"The church is still active. We're still trying to do the work of Jesus Christ in the world and our giving is part of that," Joshua Hays said, an associate pastor at First Baptist Church Waco.
He said at this time, it's too soon to tell if they've been impacted financially, but he encourages others to also give to the smaller congregations who largely depend on church-goers.
"What this crisis is teaching us is how connected we all are and how dependent on one another we are for our safety, but also for provision of basic needs, and for relationships," Hays said.
During this time, Hays encourages the community to stay in touch.
"If you're a church going person, I encourage you be in touch with your pastor. They really want to hear from you right now anyway, but as part of that conversation learn how you can continue to give," Hays said.
Other churches like St Jerome Catholic Church in Waco have already noticed a difference, according to their pastor, Fr. James Ekeocha.
"Two weeks ago when we had our first Sunday Mass before the lockdown, our collection and our attendance went down," Fr. Ekeocha said.
St. Jerome now streams Mass daily.
"The church is alive all the time as you know that we're doing these live stream Masses as a way of keeping our people connected with the life of the church and to their God as well," Fr. Ekeocha said.
However, Fr. Ekeocha said they still have to cover costs to keep their facilities running and pay staff members, while still giving back to their community through charity.
Yet, he remains hopeful.
"I know that our fears and concerns and anxieties are there, but for people of God who have faith strongly that God is alive and he cares for us, so to Him we shall go in times of need," Fr. Ekeocha said.
Both Pastor Hays and Fr. Ekeocha said they hope people look to God during this crisis, and their advice is the only way we're going to get through this is together.