(Reopening of Religious Services and in-store retail shopping)….Authorization was given last Tuesday and signed that same evening.

That does not mean they can open immediately. There are stipulations. For example, the County Health Department still encourages religious services to be conducted online. Those, however, who choose to reopen for religious services and funerals must abide by a list of stipulations. They must establish a COVID 19 prevention plan for every location, train staff on the plan, and regularly evaluate workplaces for compliance. Additional religious activities such as in-person Sunday school, bible study, and children’s church are not permitted at this time. They must eliminate singing and recital groups as these activities dramatically increase the risk of COVID 19 transmission. Discontinue the use of offering collection plates. Walk-by collection containers for congregants to drop in donations are allowed. Members are encouraged to bring their own bibles, so as not to share with others, etc. For a full list of stipulations contact the Public Health Department. Health Officer Dr. Stephen Munday says everybody should remember, mouth coverings and social distancing orders remain in effect.