Episcopal Church Women in the News 02-13-21

But a federal judge swiftly blocked the moratorium just days after it was issued, first for 14 days then until Feb. 23.

Now, both immigrants don’t know when they might safely leave the churches where they have been living to avoid deportation orders the past three years. […]

Prison Ministry Adapts to COVID Challenges

The Living Church – Westchester County, NY

Episcopalians in prison ministry are adapting their work during the coronavirus pandemic by relying on distant communication, including cards, clothes, books, and prayers.

For nearly 20 years, the Rev. Deacon Ann Douglas has volunteered at the maximum-security Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in Westchester County, New York. She must follow the strict policies of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

Her experiences are similar to those of ministers across the United States. “There have been no congregational gatherings in any prisons since March 15,” said Douglas, based at All Saints Church in Briarcliff Manor, New York: “No service. No group gatherings. Non-employees cannot go into the prison at all. Many programs for Bedford by volunteers and area churches have shut down. … We got very frustrated. When they shut down, we were just bereft.” […]

Church volunteers help elderly parishioners make vaccine appointments

Episcopal News Service – New York, NY

With COVID-19 vaccine rollouts varying widely from state to state, some states have been criticized for their confusing and dysfunctional vaccine appointment systems. One of those states is Massachusetts, which – despite being a world-renowned leader in health care and the home of vaccine producer Moderna – has largely delegated the administration of vaccines to a fragmented patchwork of hospitals and private companies.

The problems intensified over the past week as the state began opening up vaccine appointments to residents age 75 and older – a demographic that is less familiar with computers and more likely to encounter difficulty using online appointment systems. They often have to navigate labyrinthine websites, continually refresh pages and upload photos of their insurance cards. Seniors have expressed confusion, frustration and hopelessness. […]