LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Governor Asa Hutchinson along with state health officials has released updated COVID-19 guidelines for places of worship in Arkansas.
According to state health officials, it is possible to worship safely in person if the Arkansas Department of Health guidelines is followed.
Masks need to be worn at all times by all congregants, except those who are exempt under ADH guidelines.
The ADH says masks are the biggest factor that contributes to safe worship
Strict 6-foot physical distancing applies to everyone aside from family groups, both indoors and outdoors, and seating in the sanctuary should follow this social distancing.
The ADH says unmasked congregational singing is the primary driver of transmission in places of worship, even if people are six feet apart.
Health officials say singing produces aerosols that can increase the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
At Friendship Baptist Church in Springdale, their pastor Mike Syphult says they’ve already been following that guidance but now with these rising numbers in our area they are taking even more precautions.
“We actually had parking lot church for some time and then in May we came back in the building so we have been following the guidelines regarding wearing the mask and social distancing and we’ve been fortunate thus far but I do see with these numbers rising we may have to go back to parking lot church,” Syphult said.
Governor Hutchinson shared COVID-19 cases by places of worship by county, Northwest Arkansas showing some of the highest numbers being in the 151-200 range.
“When you have congregants together there is a risk associated with it. The vast majority of our places of worship are taking extra precaution and doing a very good job,” Hutchinson said,