x
Breaking News
More () »

"It's risking lives." Gov. Lee urging churches not to hold services during coronavirus pandemic

It's particularly concerning because so many worshipers are from the older generation that are more at risk from coronavirus.

With health officials and government leaders urging people not to gather in groups of more than ten people during the coronavirus pandemic, some churches are still holding services.

Gov. Bill Lee is urging them not to do that.

"Churches that continue to meet and gather with the elderly and putting groups of people in the same setting are quite frankly putting people's lives at risk.," he said Friday. 

Last week, the governor encouraged churches to find alternatives to traditional services. He was more direct in his message a week later.

RELATED: 'Let's care about others more than we care about ourselves' | Local churches move services online to prevent spread of COVID-19

RELATED: 'Let's care about others more than we care about ourselves' | Local churches move services online to prevent spread of COVID-19

"Churches still meeting are risking people's lives," he said. "There are other ways to serve and worship without congregating people."

Many churches are offering services online if they have the capability.

They are also encouraging members to do everything they can to help their neighbors during this time. Gov. Lee has suggested churches may adopt a school and help parents with childcare and other needs.

RELATED: State confirms 154 coronavirus cases in TN; mayor reporting 1st cases in Scott & Anderson Co.

RELATED: List of cancellations, closings in Knoxville, East Tennessee due to coronavirus concerns

RELATED: Sevier Co. leaders can't force businesses to close; residents concerned coronavirus guidelines ignored

RELATED: Coronavirus shapes decision to end public Mass in East Tennessee

RELATED: RAM suspends clinic operations between March 18 and May 28 to prevent spread of COVID-19

RELATED: 'I was patient zero.' Middle TN dad speaks on COVID-19 recovery, community kindness

RELATED: 'Let's care about others more than we care about ourselves' | Local churches move services online to prevent spread of COVID-19

Before You Leave, Check This Out