November 15, 2020
Dear NWMN Pastors and church leaders,
You have been leading your congregations through difficult days, and we know you are weary of change and adapting to changes, most of which we have very little control over. We appreciate your faithfulness, good attitudes, and willingness to pivot for the sake of the Gospel and the health and safety of your congregation and greater community. Due to the rise of COVID-19 cases throughout both Idaho and Washington, the governors of both states have issued new proclamations over the weekend, with broader statewide restrictions for each state, some of which will impact our church gatherings. Briefly, here are the specifics and links for more information:
IDAHO: Governor Brad Little on Saturday, November 14th issued a proclamation for a Stage 2 modified order, impacting the entire state. You can read the entire order here.
Here is what applies to Idaho churches:
Religious services are exempt from this order, except for Section 3 (refer to link above to see specifics):
Gatherings for political expression and religious activities are not subject to the provisions of this Section; provided, however, that gatherings for purposes of political expression and religious activities must adhere to the Physical Distancing and Sanitation Requirements in Section 3 of this Order.
Our churches in Idaho should note the social distancing and sanitation requirements they must abide by outlined in Section 3.
WASHINGTON: Governor Jay Inslee on Sunday, November 15th issued a statewide proclamation, with specific rules for Washington churches, impacting the entire state. The rules go into effect on Monday, until December 14th. You can read the entire order here.
We expect more details to be forthcoming, but this is what we know now, and specifically, this is what applies to churches, weddings, and funerals:
Religious services will be limited to 25% indoor capacity or 200 people, whichever is less, and choirs, bands or ensembles are prohibited from performing, but soloists are permitted. No congregational singing. Face coverings required at all times. Wedding and funeral ceremonies can go on with limited attendance, but receptions of any size are prohibited indoors.
Sincerely,
Don Detrick
Associate Network Leader – Secretary/Treasurer
