A surge in infections from the Delta variant of the coronavirus has prompted United Methodist leaders around the country to counsel churches and individuals to resume precautions against COVID-19.
Continuing to operate on the Wesleyan principle of "Do No Harm," Arkansas Bishop Gary E. Mueller posted a video July 29 urging churches under his supervision to protect children, who aren't able to receive vaccinations.
Delta Surge Arkansas
In the Greater Northwest Episcopal Area, the COVID Response Team issues two statements July 28 on the Delta variant surge. It recommended a return to wearing masks at all indoor events, and urged caution on resuming congregational singing, an activity known to spread coronavirus.
"As of July 2021, the best science and expert recommendations available to the Greater Northwest Area COVID-19 Response Team continue to urge caution regarding singing, especially indoor congregational singing," said the report. "While ‘safe’ is a word many are rightfully reluctant to use amid a pandemic, we believe the following guidance is both cautious and reflective of our Wesleyan desire to do no harm. ... We continue to be troubled by the selfish, self-destructive lack of concern among a vocal minority."
The team recommended that churches keep watch on county public health statistics to determine how severely the Delta variant has invaded their region before choosing to hold in-person worship services or other events.
Bishop Mike McKee of the North Texas Conference also urged a return to masks.
"For the foreseeable future, all are encouraged while worshipping or gathering in our churches to wear masks," the bishop said in an online statement. "If one has not been vaccinated, wearing a mask is essential. The most vulnerable among us are our children, who are unable to get vaccinated. Many thought our communities were moving in a very good direction, but the Delta variant changed that, and once again, we must change how we protect others. Otherwise, too many of our friends and family members will be at even greater risk."
Western North Carolina Conference posted new guidelines on its website encouraging vaccinations and masks.
"The well-being of our children, youth, and vulnerable populations still needs to be considered with love and care in all areas of congregational life," the guidelines said. "Please take into consideration those who cannot be vaccinated because of age and/or pre-existing conditions when establishing safety guidelines for your local church."
Florida Conference also updated its guidelines July 29 to endorse masks once more.
"We wrote last week and shared our concerns about the rising COVID-19 cases in Florida. We write again this week because of the continued increase of infections and the updated CDC guidelines related to masks. Please factor these two realities into your ongoing leadership conversations and decisions. We ask pastors and church leaders to take the current reality in Florida seriously and adjust your expectations for ministry as we continue to navigate this season together. We urge the use of masks in indoor settings, as an expression of our love for our neighbor and as the fulfillment of the law of Christ (Galatians 5:14)."
Cynthia B. Astle serves as Editor of United Methodist Insight, which she founded in 2011.