COVID-19: Bishop Issues New Guidelines
(Aug. 31, 2020) The Rt. Rev. Deon K. Johnson has released updated guidelines for reopening our churches during the pandemic.
Read his letter below.
Download the new guidelines here.
Dear Friends in the Risen Christ;
I am grateful for your leadership, your courage, and your deep abiding faith in continuing the essential work of the Church in the midst of a pandemic. In so many ways you have continued to seek and serve Christ, in new and innovate ways across the Diocese of Missouri. The resilience, determination, and courage we have shown as a Diocese in adapting to a changed reality is a testament to our commitment to sharing the Good News of God in Christ in word and deed.
While our understanding of COVID-19 continues to evolve, it is important for us to remember that ours is a faith that rests in hope. Hope grounds us in our current reality while looking towards a not too distant future. This pandemic will end. This too shall pass.
At this time, it is incumbent upon us to make plans for the safe resumption of in-person worship based on the most up-to-date scientific data and the recommendations of the departments of health across the Diocese. Effective September 15, 2020, in-person worship may resume within the Diocese of Missouri provided that the guidelines set forth in this document are satisfied, including the submission of regathering plans for review. Already submitted plans may be updated to reflect the new requirements.
Provisions are being made for the appointment of a Diocesan Pandemic Task Force, whose primary role will be to provide ongoing guidance, assistance and support to communities of faith within the Diocese of Missouri.
I am exceptionally proud of the faithfulness and care you have shown to each other and beyond grateful for the trust you have placed in me during this time of uncertainty.
We are in this together as followers of Jesus and as we continue on this journey. May God bless and keep you, those you love, and those whom you serve, now and always.
Yours in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Deon K. Johnson,
Eleventh Bishop of Missouri