Dear Brothers and Sisters:
We find ourselves fighting a war against the ravages of COVID-19 and its variants, an unrelenting pandemic. We want to do all we can to limit the spread of these viruses. We know that protection from the diseases they cause can only be achieved by immunizing a very high percentage of the population.
To limit exposure to these viruses, we urge the use of face masks in public meetings whenever social distancing is not possible. To provide personal protection from such severe infections, we urge individuals to be vaccinated. Available vaccines have proven to be both safe and effective.
We can win this war if everyone will follow the wise and thoughtful recommendations of medical experts and government leaders. Please know of our sincere love and great concern for all of God’s children.
The First Presidency
Russell M. Nelson
Dallin H. Oaks
Henry B. Eyring
First Presidency Letter - 12 Aug 2021
Physical Distancing: There are no enforced physical distancing requirements. Members are encouraged to distance as possible.
Members who are ill should stay home and not attend in-person meetings. If you test positive for COVID-19 or if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, please follow all guidelines from health officials regarding appropriate quarantine and isolation periods before returning to any in-person activities.
Schedule: We will hold meetings according to the normal schedule. No additional gaps between ward meetings will be required.
Other Considerations:
No printed program will be distributed. Program will be in the online bulletin.
As we gradually return to full in-person services, we should remember to show patience, kindness, and tolerance for those whose views differ from our own.
Time: 10:30 am every week. Second hour classes are held in-person at from 11: 40 - 12:30.
Location: 700 N Heatherwilde Blvd, Pflugerville
The ordinance of the sacrament will not be part of the broadcast. We will administer the sacrament before hearing from speakers in sacrament meeting.
Priesthood holders administering (blessing and passing) the sacrament will wear masks.
Sacrament administration outside of sacrament meeting must be approved by the bishop. The General Handbook 18.9.1 has the following direction on when this authorization is appropriate. If you feel you need authorization to have the sacrament at home, and the following applies to you, please reach out to Bishop Arnesen for consideration.
"If members of his ward are unable to partake of the sacrament because they are confined to a home, care center, or hospital, the bishop may authorize priesthood holders to administer the sacrament to them. "
We have the following guidelines regarding virtual options.
Sacrament Meeting: If you are uncomfortable attending or have health restrictions that prevent you from attending, you may find a link to our live stream with the Sacrament Meeting Program.
Sacrament Administration: Members who "are confined to a home, care center, or hospital" may request authorization from the Bishop weekly to have the sacrament administered at their home.
Second-Hour: There are no church-sponsored virtual options for second hour meetings. Members who are uncomfortable with in-person participation are encouraged to study Come, Follow Me at home with their families. Small, in-person or virtual study groups may also be organized by individuals and families to study Come, Follow Me together.