SALT LAKE CITY-Wednesday, the Utah Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has issued additional guidelines for how local Utah leaders should move forward in reopening churches across the state.
In a letter to stake presidents, the area presidency approved all Utah wards to enter into the first phase of the Church’s reopening plan and conduct in-person meetings for the first time in the Beehive State since March 8.
These will be done with added precautions.
The area presidency has also approved infrequent youth gatherings as long as social distancing and other government regulations are followed.
Because of planning things out, many wards may not be meeting this weekend as leaders devise ways to best adhere to the new guidelines.
The area guidelines suggest only Sacrament meetings occur during weekly Sunday services, citing space limitations because of the size of certain congregations.
During the first phase of reopening, only 99 will be allowed to worship together.
The area presidency said wards will likely need to conduct multiple meetings or have members attend on alternating weeks.
Per state guidelines, wards should ensure there is a 6-foot radius between household groups and members should avoid gathering in church lobbies. They are encouraged to wear masks.
High-risk individuals (65 and older) are discouraged from attending in-person Sacrament meetings.
The use of hymnbooks and printed programs should be discontinued, for the time being.
As to Sacrament administration, guidelines recommend those breaking the bread should use hand sanitizer and do so in view of the congregation.
Enough trays should be used so bread pieces may be fully separated one from another.
Water cups can be spaced out to avoid them being inadvertently touched.
Those passing the Sacrament should offer the tray individually to visitors and not pass it down the row.
Sacrament trays should be cleaned and disinfected before and after each use.
The Utah Area Presidency also advises youth gatherings to be small at first (20 or fewer) as youth learn to apply social distancing standards in a Church setting.
The presidency said they will inform stake presidents when larger youth gatherings are approved.
