Vice President Mike Pence on Wednesday said that people should not attend church services with more than 10 attendees present.
Pence, who said he’s been watching church from home with his wife, told ABC’s Nightline that most people of faith should do the same.
“We really believe this is a time when people should avoid gatherings of more than 10 people,” Pence said. “And, and so, we continue to urge churches around America to heed to that.”
Pence thanked religious institutions that have complied with federal guidelines, asking people in “nonessential” jobs to remain home.
“We’re so grateful to churches and synagogues and places of worship around America that have heeded the president’s coronavirus guidelines for America,” he said.
As closures have put many churches under financial strain, Pence has encouraged Christians to continue donating even if they’re “not in the pews” on Sunday.
“It’s still a good idea to, if you can, to go ahead and make that donation, because all the ministries are continuing to play a vital role in our communities,” Pence said during a March 21 press conference at the White House.
Most churches have canceled their in-person Easter services and many synagogues have asked members to move their Passover celebrations online. Several pastors were arrested this week for refusing to comply with shutdown orders.
