The Stake Presidency met with all of the bishops last night and provided information regarding issues of interest during this time of trial.
1. Baptisms. Ward baptisms can continue if desired by the individual families, however the number of people attending must be kept small. There is no definition of “small”, however, I’m going to suggest no more than 11 people total. That is the number being used by the temple for a wedding or sealing. However, the baptism can be streamed to family or close friends.
2. The Addiction Recovery Program hosted by the other Stake will not be proceeding until further notice. If they are able to have virtual sessions, that will be announced later.
3. The Addiction Recovery Spousal Support Group hosted by our Stake will only be conducted via telephone.
4. Missionary Prep will not be held in person but will be conducted virtually. Brother and Sister McKenzie are working on the specifics.
5. Seminary students are meeting once per week via the internet. Daily assignments are to be completed by the students on their own.
6. Stake conference, currently scheduled for April 25 and 26 is likely going to be postponed. A new date, once provided, will be communicated at a later date.
7. While Moroni’s Quest is still currently scheduled, it too must be
considered in the face of the Covid 19 pandemic and the current Public Health Emergency. However, it is the intent of the Stake Presidency to hold Moroni’s Quest if at all possible, although it might mean moving to a date later in the summer or even early fall. Stay tuned for more information on that, but in the meantime, all eligible youth and specified adults are encouraged to register via the online registration system.
8. There have been some inquiries about providing sacrament in the home.
The following is an excerpt from the Gospel Living App that the Stake Presidency felt was appropriate:
The Sacrament (When Chapels Are Closed)
We can still remember the Savior and keep our covenants. Since all Church meetings have been put on hold, you may be asking, “But what about the sacrament? It’s the pinnacle experience of our
Sabbath worship. How do we get by without it?” Fair question. But remember:
1. You will receive direction through your local leaders about how the sacrament will be administered during this time. At the very least, you will be able to receive the sacrament at least once a month. It's comforting to know that even in uncertain times we will still have this blessing in our lives.
2. You can still prepare for the sacrament every week by repenting daily, keeping your covenants, and remembering the Savior. When the Sabbath comes, you can sing a sacrament hymn at home and read the sacrament prayers (Doctrine and Covenants 20: 77, 79). Go there spiritually, even if you can’t physically.
3. This is an opportunity to strengthen our testimony of Christ and our appreciation for the sacrament ordinance. Sometimes, repetitive events can become routine and lose their significance. When we reflect on the sacrament, however, we give the Holy Ghost a chance to teach us how holy and special this ordinance truly is.
4. Remember, nothing can separate you from Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ when you turn to Them. Christ said, "And, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world" (Matthew 28:20).
Obstacles and trials in life tend to come and go, but Christ and
His love for you last forever. Here you are Bishops. Thx for being
together and feeling a love and unity in this great Stake.
We expect we will receive specific direction on being able to administer the sacrament in our homes, likely as soon as this evening or tomorrow. I will send out those instructions once they are received.
These are difficult times. Certainly, our perception of what is truly
important is likely seem remarkably insignificant compared to having good health, food to eat and a warm home. Whether we are prepared to admit it or not, the reality is that our society has been changed. I again urge you to view President Nelson’s message on hope. I further urge you all to prepare for the upcoming General Conference in a prayerful and thoughtful manner. I’m sure we will receive further counsel at that time.
In the meantime, reach out to your neighbours and friends and ministering assignments via text or phone. Please make sure everyone is doing well. Keep the lines of communication open. Practice good hygiene and social distancing. Don’t go out or have contact with others if you’re sick, especially if you have a fever, a cough, runny nose or sore throat. In that case, AHS is directing you to self isolate for 14 days. We have recently had students returning to our community from BYU-Idaho where a case of Coronavirus has been diagnosed. As returning travellers, an automatic 14 day period of isolation is required. The fact a case of Coronavirus arose on campus makes that even more important. I include this simply as counsel to all of us to be extremely cautious in our interactions. So far, our little community has not had a diagnosed case. That does not mean we are immune. Please exercise common sense and prudence.
Please don’t hesitate to contact the bishopric or Pres. Jasperson or
Pres. Oertli with questions or concerns. We will help as best we can.
I have faith and confidence that, as President Nelson most recently
stated, this will pass, as we join in faith and follow the commandments.
Together, we can overcome.
We love you all.
Bishop Brooks
