Gov. Abbott Institutes Statewide Face Covering (Masks) Order / Limits Some Gatherings

Churches are exempt from orders, but CTC Guidelines continue to require face masks be worn in church buildings.

July 2, 2020

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a new Executive Order requiring the wearing of a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in all Texas counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases. There are a few exceptions to this order, including “any person who is actively providing or obtaining access to religious worship.” The Governor also issued a proclamation giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than ten and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others. 
 
Though churches are technically exempt from today’s executive order, please note that the official policy of the Central Texas Conference regarding returning to in-person worship has not changed. Masks are to be worn by all staff, volunteers, members and guests in all CTC church buildings. To review all the “returning to in-person worship guidelines” from Bishop Lowry and the Cabinet, visit ctcumc.org/COVID-19-cabinet-guidelines.
 
Visit the news section of the official Office of the Texas Governor website for more details and links to today’s executive order and proclamation. You can also view a video message from Gov. Abbott which coincides with his Executive Order, encouraging Texans to do their part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and keep their communities safe.