Due to the increased precautions surrounding the COVID-19 virus, all church meetings and activities have been canceled or postponed until further notice. See letters from the First Presidency and President Starkie below. Also, visit the Church’s websites for additional info.
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sent the following letter March 12, 2020, to Church members worldwide.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As promised in our letter of March 11, 2020, we continue to monitor the changing conditions related to COVID-19 throughout the world. We have considered the counsel of local Church leaders, government officials and medical professionals, and have sought the Lord’s guidance in these matters. We now provide the following updated directions.
Beginning immediately, all public gatherings of Church members are being temporarily suspended worldwide until further notice. This includes:
-Stake conferences, leadership conferences and other large gatherings
-All public worship services, including sacrament meetings
-Branch, ward and stake activities
Where possible, leaders should conduct any essential leadership meetings via technology. Specific questions may be referred to local priesthood leaders. Further direction related to other matters will be provided.
Bishops should counsel with their stake president to determine how to make the sacrament available to members at least once a month.
We encourage members in their ministering efforts to care for one another. We should follow the Savior’s example to bless and lift others.
We bear our witness of the Lord’s love during this time of uncertainty. He will bless you to find joy as you do your best to live the gospel of Jesus Christ in every circumstance.
Sincerely,
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Message from President Starkie:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
We have met this evening in council and in prayer regarding recent developments in the COVID-19 issues affecting our world and communities.
Out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to cancel the following stake activities:
-Stake Youth Trek Kick-off, Thursday, March 12
-Stake Women’s Conference, Saturday, March 14
-Stake Organized Sports Activities
In addition, all Stake Conference meetings April 11-12 are canceled as outlined in today’s communication from Church Headquarters
Our concerns lie with each member of our Stake individually as well as for our entire stake community. We urge all members to follow recommendations of health officials in taking appropriate personal measures that will limit the risk of contracting and spreading the COVID-19 virus.
In the coming weeks, regular Sunday worship services will continue as scheduled for the present time.
We love you all and hope you will remember in your prayers all of our brothers and sisters here at home and around the world as this illness continues to affect to many.
Sincerely,
Westbrook Stake Presidency
