[March 12, 2020] On the evening of March 11, 2020, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry shared the following message with bishops of The Episcopal Church:

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

We are facing an unprecedented challenge with the COVID-19 outbreak, which the World Health Organization has just deemed a pandemic (see link). In this context, bishops having charge of a diocese have my support as Presiding Bishop if, in light of the public health situation in their diocese, they decide – for a designated period of time – to suspend the administration of the common cup to the congregation in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, and/or to cancel in-person gatherings for public worship.

I encourage you, in the event of cancellation of these public gatherings, to use technology to offer worship.

God bless you and keep the faith.

+Michael

The Most Reverend Michael B. Curry
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church

Visit the Episcopal Church’s webpage Concerning COVID-19 for information and resources related to the coronavirus outbreak including: Faith-based responses to epidemics from Episcopal Relief and Development, general guidelines and safety measures, links to government and public health information, resources for using technology to gather, as well as worship and formation resources to use at home or in virtual settings. Resources are updated regularly.