March 13, 2020 – Due to precautions and mandates by the State of Illinois, many churches and parishes are considering how they will serve their flocks this Sunday. Some churches are opting to not hold service on the advice of health officials to avoid groups of over 250 people. The state of Illinois has already mandated that all gatherings of over 1000 be canceled. Despite that, some churches and parishes are planning to continue with service this weekend. It should be noted that this was against the advice of the newly formed Crisis Communication Team for Decatur and Macon County.
If you are planning to attend services this Sunday, here is what you need to know:
- The Diocese of Springfield in Illinois issued the following statement: Bishop Thomas John Paprocki has announced, effective today, March 14, 2020, that all Catholics within the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois are dispensed from their obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice. Bishop Paprocki and the parishes of the diocese remain committed to making Masses and the sacraments available and safe, with precautions previously announced. Catholic faithful who are well are encouraged, but not obligated, during this time to continue to attend Mass. Those who do not attend Mass are strongly encouraged to replace that time with prayer and devotion, study the scripture readings which can be found here http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/031420.cfm, watch the mass on ETWN or online, and make a spiritual communion in lieu of reception of the Blessed Sacrament (https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/act-of-spiritual-communion-339), pray the rosary, and to pray this particular prayer for the Coronavirus situation in our country (http://www.usccb.org/about/communications/upload/prayer-coronavirus-2020-card.pdf). These actions are taken as reasonable and responsible measures to help prevent the Coronavirus from becoming a threat in our communities while continuing to offer the sacraments to the faithful. During this time, we trust in the loving providence of our Lord Jesus Christ and in the intercession of our Blessed Mother.
- First Christian Church has announced that it will not have service on Sunday, but instead offer a streaming service found by clicking here.
- St John’s Lutheran Church in Decatur has canceled all worship services and related activities until further notice.
- The Decatur Community of Christ church has stopped all worship services, meetings and activities for the next three weeks.
- Life Foursquare Gospel Church will not be having services on Sunday, but instead will offer video sermon found by clicking here
- GT Church in Decatur will not hold public services on Sunday but will offer streaming services on Sunday at 8am, 9:30am and 11am. – Watch Here
- D1 Naz will offer services on Sunday and will offer streaming services on Sunday Watch Here
- First United Methodist will offer services Sunday and will offer streaming services for those who do not wish to attend. Watch Here
