Gov. Bill Lee’s office released guidance Friday afternoon for reopening Tennessee’s houses of worship as the state begins the process of lifting its stay-at-home order in response to the coronavirus.
“As we look to reopen our economy in a safe fashion, the decision on in-person gatherings will be up to each individual faith community,” reads a statement from the governor. “We’re confident in their ability to determine the proper time and how to incorporate these guidelines to worship in a way that protects the health of their congregation.”
The guidelines, which were compiled by the governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, include:
– A phased approach to resuming in-person gatherings is recommended. Vulnerable populations (everyone 65 years and older, people with disabilities, people with serious respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, people who are immunocompromised, and others) and children’s activities/nursery programs should not gather in person until a later time.
– Consider solutions to minimize close personal contact that may be part of your services, such as handshakes or sharing food and drink.