Stake conferences (starting November 2020) and weekly worship (now) can resume in a variety of ways, as local circumstances allow
Today, the First Presidency updated the guidelines to help Church leaders and members safely increase engagement in worship and other activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Area Presidencies, under the guidance of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, are tasked with approving meetings and activities in their areas. The First Presidency letter notes that, beginning in November 2020, stake conferences may be held virtually or with careful social distancing. An enclosure to the letter says weekly worship can resume immediately, depending on local conditions.
“In challenging times,” the enclosure says, “disciples of Jesus Christ continue to follow Him by participating in His work of salvation and exaltation.” This work goes forward in every circumstance. Because local conditions vary, the enclosure includes four key principles to help local leaders and members best administer the Church. These principles, as well as their application, are provided below. “We are grateful for inspired patterns of ministering and home-centered, Church-supported efforts that allow the Lord’s work to move forward in current conditions.” — The First Presidency
- Weekly sacrament meetings may be held virtually, safely in person, or by hybrid in-person and virtual broadcasts. Those who can’t attend may view a broadcast of the meeting, and then administer the sacrament personally in the home.
- Youth meetings, activities and service projects can be held virtually or safely in person, as local circumstances allow.
- Second hour meetings may be held virtually, safely in person, or by hybrid in-person and virtual broadcasts, according to local circumstances.
- Beginning in November, stake conferences may be held virtually or with careful social distancing.
(Read the full article on the Church Newsroom)
The Utah Area Presidency issued a “Utah Area Supplement” with specific instructions for units in the Utah Area.
These are updates to the guidelines issued on May 19, 2020.
