(CNSNews.com) -- The public interest law firm and Christian ministry Liberty Counsel is calling for churches across the nation to reopen on May 3, "ReOpen Church Sunday," and to do so in accordance with CDC guidelines about social distancing and hygiene.
“The lockdowns have closed churches at a time of greatest need, and they must reopen to meet the burgeoning needs of the community," said Legal Counsel Founder Matt Staver.
"Churches are now more essential than ever to bring comfort, hope, and help to the people they serve," he said. "Each church is different and each one must assess when and how best to reopen.”
In a statement, the legal group said, "After weeks of being closed due to the coronavirus, Liberty Counsel is calling on the churches to open and believers to start meeting again on Sunday, May 3, which is being called ReOpen Church Sunday. May 3 is also the beginning of the National Day of Prayer week, which culminates on Thursday, May 7."
"ReOpen Church Sunday should include appropriate measures of sanitization and appropriate social distancing between families," said the group.
The statement further reads, "Churches may also consider reopening with a variety of service options, which may a combination of: (1) reduced seating inside the church; (2) parking lot services for those who cannot get or do not want to participate inside the church; and (3) online service for those who are unable to attend or who are in a higher risk category due to age or predisposed health conditions."
