Sisters and Brothers –
I hope this week has brought with it a knowledge of the improved attitude that comes from looking upward (the F-35 flyover), the warmth of brighter days ahead (warmer weather and sunshine) and hope in the incremental improvement in our situation (the lifting of some suggested restrictions).
While these are all positive signs of an eventual “return to normal,” I counsel each of you to remain steadfast and smart. Use common sense in your interactions. Remain diligent in taking care of your physical, emotional, financial and mental health of yourselves and your families.
And continue to take care of each other.
The governor’s formal placement of the state of Utah under “moderate risk” protocols for COVID-19 beginning on May 1, 2020, has opened up a few opportunities for us to wisely increase our capabilities to minister to our families and each other.
- First, for another week, I am authorizing the administration of the sacrament by worth priesthood holders of the appropriate office to members of their immediate family in their homes and to other members of the ward who may not have a worthy priesthood holder in their home to administer it, assuming
- All participants are comfortable with receiving and administering the sacrament in their present condition
- The interaction is brief, limiting the risk of exposure
- Those who participate in preparing and administering the sacrament engage in social distancing, wear face coverings and use appropriate hygiene, including thoroughly washing or sanitizing their hands immediately prior to preparing or administering the sacrament.
- Extra caution is used for high-risk individuals (e.g., those over 65 and those with underlying medical conditions), including limiting the frequency of visits and avoiding physical interactions as much as possible.
- For further guidance on preparing and administering the sacrament, you may wish to review the “Directions for Essential Ordinances, Blessings, and Other Church Functions” document attached to the First Presidency’s April 16, 2020 letter.
- The new Utah guidance allows baptisms, weddings, and funerals to proceed with a small group (no more than 20) of close family and friends, as long as the participants have been following social distancing and hygiene practices for two weeks prior to the service and as long as they follow appropriate hygiene, social distancing, and face covering-wearing protocols at the event to the extent possible. Those over 65, those with underlying medical conditions, and others considered “high risk” should be encouraged to witness the service via technology. If they do attend, face-covering and social distancing requirements should be strictly observed. If Church buildings are used for a wedding or funeral, it will be important to clean and disinfect any space used for the event. Discuss any specific plans for these events directly with me before moving forward.
- Interviews and councils should continue to primarily be done through technology. However, if there’s a need to bring a group together (less than 20), there is flexibility to do so. This includes ministering visits as well. Again, use good judgement.
- Interviews and meetings with me may be scheduled “in-person,” assuming the same precautions as above are followed. My appointments will continue to be done using technology, where possible and preferred, however. For appointments, please reach out to Bro. Nathan Michelsen at 801-615-9023 and counsel with him about the best meeting situation for you.
I love you all and hope that you are taking care of yourselves and others. Please let a member of the bishopric or ward council know if you have any specific questions or concerns.
– Bishop Bennett