Asking ward / branch leaders to assume responsibility for in-person gatherings

20 January 2020

Bishoprics and Branch Presidencies...

With the announcement that all meeting restrictions have been lifted by the Church...with the added counsel to follow local safety guidelines...we ask that you assume responsibility for approving all in-person gatherings in your ward or branch.

We recommend you follow the counsel of Church leaders and involve your ward or branch council in making these decisions always with safety as the highest priority.

The Oregon Health Authority provides an excellent resource with safety guidelines for faith institutions at this website: https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le3465.pdf

You'll notice there are many helpful links in this document that offer guidelines—from meeting attendance to serving food at socials. On the latter point, we remind you that as long as we're in "extreme risk" counties, socials and serving food are strongly discouraged.

A common question among leaders is whether a social event is a "social gathering" or a "church meeting?" That decision is now yours.

You and your council can also decide how and when to hold Primary meetings and Relief Society activity nights, if at all.

We remind you again that safety comes first and we recommend that when in doubt favor being extra cautious until leaders and members feel comfortable in holding events beyond the now regularly scheduled meetings (sacrament services, second-hour classes, youth activity nights, etc.).

We appreciate so much you and your leaders determining how to keep members safe for all events hosted by your ward or branch.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to counsel with us at any time.

Mount Hood Stake Presidency