The lead paragraph in a recent story published by the Sacramento Bee read:
“Californians are still free to attend their house of worship. But they’re forbidden from singing or chanting.”
The new guidance for places of worship was issued on July 1.
The edict came in a 14-page order. It reads….
“Discontinue singing (in rehearsals, services, etc.), chanting, and other practices and performances where there is increased likelihood for transmission from contaminated exhaled droplets. Consider practicing these activities through alternative methods (such as internet streaming) that ensure individual congregation members perform these activities separately in their own homes.”
The previous guidelines only encouraged churches to “strongly consider” ending corporate worship, the Sacramento Bee reported.
The governor’s office did not indicate how it intends to enforce the law.
Dr. Paul Chappell, the pastor of Lancaster Baptist Church, a mega-church north of Los Angeles, told The Todd Starnes Show that his congregation plans on singing even louder.
He said, “First the state told us when to worship. Now they are telling us “how” to worship. We have been patient, and safe (even wearing masks). Our church will sing to the Lord Sunday. The heavens declare His glory and so will we.”
He’s also concerned that the government leaders making decisions that impact churches have no relationship with any evangelical leaders.