“Drive-In” Church Services and Guidance for Church Leaders

Abingdon Police Department

                                               

For Immediate Release

“Drive-In” Church Services and Guidance for Church Leaders

With the newfound idea of drive-in church services during the pandemic, the Abingdon Police Department has started receiving several inquiries about regulations for these types of services. The Executive Order, issued, by the Governor of Virginia, does not prohibit worship or worship services. However, it does place limitations on the number of people in attendance at one time. Here are a few recommendations to follow during drive-in services:

• Attendees may travel to their place of worship, park in the parking lot, and listen to the religious message while remaining in their vehicles.
• It is recommended that immediate family/members of the same household occupy the same vehicle.
• If attendees must have their car windows down to hear the service, there should be at least six feet of space between parked vehicles, preferably more.  
• Participants must remain in their vehicle at all times, except as necessary to visit a restroom. 
• Try to keep the entire service to an hour or less in order to prevent people from needing to exit their vehicle.
• If an attendee must exit their vehicle, they need to maintain social distancing from those coordinating the service.
• There must be no more than 10 individuals leading the religious ceremony or functioning outside of the church in support of the religious ceremony.
• Any objects used for collecting monetary offerings shall not be passed from attendee to attendee but may be offered to attendees in a vehicle as long as the object stays in the possession of the person assisting with collection. 
• Appropriate measures should be taken for the safety of those functioning outside of the cars. 
• Please do not allow vehicles to block streets or sidewalks.
• Faith communities should also adhere to any noise ordinances.

Specific guidance for religious leaders can be found at these two links:

https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/governor-of-virginia/pdf/Faith-PDF_Guidance-Document_JBU_4-6-2020.pdf

https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/dei/documents/2nd_Q_A-Faith-Document_4.10.20_PDF.pdf

During these uncertain times, it is great for religious organizations to be creative and resourceful. Churches rethinking their service delivery, through internet-based services or drive-in services, are great ways to continue their ministry work until we can all meet again in church buildings. Take this time at home to plan your menu for the first church luncheon when all this is over because we are going to eat our body weight in chicken, mac and cheese, and lemon pound cake.

We realize that the pandemic has created many challenges, and we are in new and unchartered territory. However, we need, appreciate, the support and commitment of our local churches and houses of worship. Our religious community is extremely important to our overall success as a community, and a nation. As we continue to STAY HOME to flatten the curve and slowing the progress of this virus, we strongly urge all religious organizations to continue with virtual services. In fact, the need for pastoral care increases during times of crisis and is very much needed for mental health. If you have further questions regarding drive-in services and need guidance, feel free to call 276-628-3111.