The governments of Haywood County, Canton, Clyde, Waynesville and Maggie Valley have been asked to advise local churches on their obligations during the Easter season.
Easter is a central occasion for Christian worship. It also marks a traditional time for family gatherings.
In a time of pandemic, though, the gatherings of church or family members is a direct threat to the health of everyone who participates.
The novel coronavirus is easily spread by people who are not aware that they are contagious. This means that any family member who greets another can be infecting the other without knowing it.
The Proclamations of the state and the local governments prohibit gatherings of more than ten (10) people. We recommend that even in groups of that size the participants should practice physical distancing of six (6) feet and should wear cloth face coverings or actual masks, as recommended by the CDC.
Our local vigilance has reduced our local infections significantly. Gathering for in-person church services, even in this holiest of seasons for Christians, risks too much - it risks the health of every congregation that gathers.
Haywood County Health Department
Haywood County Emergency Services
Town of Canton
Town of Clyde
Town of Waynesville
Town of Maggie Valley