Churches look to eclipse as outreach opportunity

The special glasses have been delivered. The portable toilets have been ordered.

Now, for expectant sky watchers and for property owners—including a number of churches—in the path of the total solar eclipse Monday, it’s just a matter of waiting and hoping for good weather until the eclipse begins.

Across the swath of the United States stretching from Texas to Maine where “totality” is expected, clergy have come up with ways to make the most of the astronomical show—handing out those glasses, giving out-of-towners a place to park and observe the event, and even offering locals the opportunity to be baptized near the time of near-total darkness.