Dear Friends in Christ,
Governor Pritzker has issued a new executive order (Executive Order 61) regarding COVID-19. These new orders were issued as a result of some counties reporting three consecutive days of a test positivity rate of 8% or higher. Effective October 23, 2020, public health restrictions and mitigation measures are being implemented.
How will this affect our churches in those areas? Our district staff has reviewed Gov. Pritzker’s order and cross checked this order with the current guidelines on worship from the Illinois Dept. of Public Health. The order does not specifically address houses of worship. It is our understanding that churches in affected counties may continue to conduct services in conformity with the guidelines issued by the IDPH which has established the indoor worship service best practice to be 25% of the sanctuary’s seating capacity or 100 people, whichever number is fewer, per service.
As always, we would encourage all congregational leaders to be in communication with their local health department on updates regarding best practices during this pandemic season and regularly check with the IDPH and CDC for guideline updates. May our Lord continue to gather us around His Word and Sacrament for our salvation while shielding us all with His almighty arm. We continue to commend our workers, congregations, schools and ministries to our Lord’s care, protection and leading. We are grateful for your Christ-led dedication and commitment. Keep up the good and holy work.
