08/05/2020

Congregations: Look for letter from Governor Mike DeWine regarding important health information

The following is from the Ohio Department of Health Coronavirus website. The statement was made during Governor Mike DeWine's press conference on Tuesday, August 4, 2020. 

LETTER TO FAITH-BASED COMMUNITY

Governor DeWine today announced that he will send a letter to Ohio's faith-based community to share important health information with Ohio churches, synagogues, and mosques and to share ways to better protect their worshipers.

One case study shows that a man with COVID-19 attended a church service in Ohio, and following that service, 91 additional people from five counties developed symptoms. 

"I know that our faith-based leaders want nothing more than to protect their worshipers, but we also know that the virus can easily spread in places where people gather," said Governor DeWine. "It is vital that, any time people gather together, everyone wear masks, practice social distancing, wash hands, and while indoors, making sure there is good ventilation and airflow."

The Bishop's office does not know at this time exactly what the Governor will share in his letter. 

We believe that most of our congregations are already meeting or exceeding current gathering recommendations and we ask that you continue to do so. We thank you for your willingness to sacrifice for the sake of your neighbor and for being a particularly bright light during this dark time.