Dear Ward Members,
Most of you should have recently received a message from the 1st Presidency and further information from our stake president, President Jensen. We have been encouraged by President Jensen to follow the words of the Prophet. The Prophet, President Nelson and the 1st Presidency have urged us to use face masks in public meetings whenever social distancing is not possible. President Nelson also is urging us to be vaccinated and indicated that available vaccines have proven to be both safe and effective.
I know this is a volatile issue and I have heard strong, compelling arguments on both sides of this issue. Feelings are very strong by good upstanding members of the ward and our agency should be respected when considering other’s decisions and should remember the commandment of our Savior to “Judge not, that ye be not judged.” Your ward leaders will not be mask monitors and there should be no shaming but mutual respect for decisions that are made.
For now, not much will change at church on Sunday. Those who are uncomfortable physically attending Sacrament Meeting are still welcome to join by Zoom. Having the Sacrament administered in the home is still allowed. Those administering the sacrament at Church have been asked to return to wearing masks. We will have additional chairs set up in the cultural hall for social distancing. We have not been instructed to go back to every other row. Even though I have been immunized, I will be wearing a mask until I am seated on the stand. The bishopric will return to having an empty seat between each of us. For now, the second hour of the block will not be on Zoom and because we will not be able to social distance in our classes, you are urged to wear your face masks. This will include our Primary children.
Here are some closing thoughts:
- Please stay home if you are symptomatic or have been exposed to the virus.
- Please do not feel guilty if you are uncomfortable attending church.
- Whether you attend in person or by Zoom, please try to keep the Sabbath Day Holy.
- Please pray that this virus will soon run its course and we can return to some semblance of normalcy.
Thank you for all you do to build the kingdom. I love you and I know our Savior loves you.
With Respect,
Bishop Ron Dille
Riverdale 7th Ward 