Holcomb Advises Churches On Safe Services During COVID-19 Pandemic

Gov. Eric Holcomb is urging Christian Hoosiers to safely practice their faith this weekend as people celebrate Holy Week and Easter.

Holcomb’s “Stay-At-Home” order limits gatherings to no more than 10 people – though some churches throughout the state have flouted that restriction in recent weeks.

State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box says churches can host “drive-in” services, though they still need to follow social distancing guidelines.

“Stay in your cars,” Box says. “Go to the bathroom before you leave and don’t get out of your cars for anything, except when you reach home again.”

READ MORE: Socially Distant But Together In Spirit: Faith Communities Prep For April Celebrations

Holcomb says churches should restrict contact between clergy, staff and their congregations. And he would prefer they not give out communion.

“But if so, it has to be pre-packaged and it has to meet the current food safety standards,” Holcomb says.

Holcomb says he hopes law enforcement won’t have to break up church services violating the “Stay-At-Home” order.

Contact Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.

This is a rapidly evolving story, and we are working hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, we recommend checking the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Indiana State Department of Health for the most recent numbers of COVID-19 cases.