COVID-19: Update #2 for the Parleys Stake

As you may have heard already, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has suspended church services worldwide in response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. This includes all public worship services (e.g., Sacrament Meetings, Sunday School, etc.) and all Stake and Ward activities. Here is the link to the Church’s statement: Gatherings of Church Members Temporarily Suspended Worldwide. May we all comply with the Brethren’s direction with exactness, as we will be blessed as we follow their counsel. If you have any questions as to what is allowed, please do not hesitate to contact your Bishop or any member of the Stake Presidency. 

 

We echo today’s message from The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles that we should follow the Savior’s example to bless and lift others during this time of uncertainty. Indeed, this is an opportunity to put the gospel into action by strengthening our familial and neighborly relationships as we minister and care for one another. Please be mindful that, as you minister to others, especially our dear elderly brothers and sisters, we must take great care to wash our hands and avoid personal contact to ensure we don’t contribute to the spread of the virus. We are confident that each of you will find meaningful ways to demonstrate Christlike love to neighbors in need, and that ministering to one another during this time that we’re not meeting together will provide us with the comfort and influence of the Holy Ghost that comes in abundance when we follow the second great commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” 

 

Let us address two additional items that may be on your minds. First, as provided in the Church’s statement, we are conferring with the Bishops of the Stake to determine a unified and consistent approach to taking the sacrament. We will announce that approach early next week. In the meantime, sacrament will not be made available to Stake members this Sunday. We hope this Sunday will provide an opportunity for you to be at home and center your thoughts and activities on the Savior. The absence of the sacrament should not deter us from pondering the critical and wonderful role it plays in our lives. Second, we have not received specific guidance on temple attendance. We expect to receive guidance soon and will update you once we do. Should you have temple questions in the meantime, you are welcome to contact temples directly. 

 

We join the Prophet, his counselors, and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in bearing witness of the Lord’s love during this time. Our faith is strong that the Lord will continue to bless us as we face this time with hope and optimism that comes from faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and living His gospel in every circumstance. 

 

We love and are grateful for all of you. 

 

The Parleys Stake Presidency