With the vast majority of U.S. churches closed and the country in a deep recession, church finances are in peril. Some are seeking government money through a new SBA program.
Observance of the Muslim holy month of fasting, prayer and festivities is being curtailed in many parts of the world due to COVID-19. But in some countries, the pandemic hasn't dissuaded the faithful.
Giving to the poor is an essential part of the holy month, which began Friday, and with so many people thrown out of work, observers say it's particularly needed now.
NPR's David Greene talks to Reverend Irene Munroe of Massachusetts and Imam Khalid Latif of New York City about grappling with profound loss in their communities, and their experiences with COVID-19.
Ramadan has begun for Muslims around the world. In the Middle East, the month of fasting and prayer is deeply altered by restrictions intended to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The clampdown on public gatherings was openly defied by clerics and worshippers. Now the government has changed the rules as the holy month is about to begin.
For Muslims, Ramadan is about gathering each evening to break the day's fast and come together as a community. But the coronavirus is forcing people to rethink connection while staying apart.