A pastor friend recently emailed me the following question:
Do you know of anyone who has navigated state mandates against congregational singing indoors? Washington state just outlawed it for the next four weeks, even though we are socially distanced and wear face masks in our (limited capacity) gatherings. They will allow one soloist and one instrument (but not singing along).
A little more background. Churches can meet outside only if it’s on their own property, and we don’t really have space. Legal action seems pointless given that it’s only four weeks. So it seems like the only two options we have for the next four Sundays are to rebel or comply.
All this feels like overreach. What do you think? Wave silent praise flags along with the soloist?
Pastor from Seattle, Washington
I forwarded his email to a number of pastors. A few of their responses are below. I conclude with my own convictions at the end.
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Rebel. That’s insane. Churches can’t even rent an outdoor property or use the farm of a member? That’s the part that tells me the restrictions aren’t in good faith anymore.
Put that in your book!
Pastor Greg from Louisville,
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