Area churches respond to COVID-19 concerns

SHAWANO — Area churches are dealing with the impact of COVID-19 health concerns.

Some churches are cancelling Sunday services or letting church-goers know they can participate online if they’re not comfortable attending.

The CatholicDiocese of Green Bay’s Bishop Ricken has lifted the obligation to attend Sunday Mass for the next three Sundays. However, Mass will still be offered.

Hope Community Church announced on its website that the church will not be gathering this Sunday, but a full worship service will be offered online.

Church on the Hill United Methodist Church announced that Church on the Hill in Shawano and Salem Church in Red River will suspend face-to-face worship beginning this Sunday and continuing through the month of March. There will also be no gatherings/activities in either church until the suspension is lifted.

First Presbyterian Church in Shawano in canceling worship this Sunday, as well as Wednesdsay, March 18.

In a post on its Facebook page, First Presbyterian also announced that Sunday Fun Day is closed this week, March 15, as well as next Sunday, March 22. In addition, community dinner has been cancelled on March 24.

Wolf River Lutheran High School has postponed its Trivia Event that was scheduled for Sunday. A new date has not been set.

St. James Lutheran Church posted notice of steps it is taking in light of COVID-19, including hand sanitizer stations at every church entrance. The church is also asking attendees to refrain from handshakes and hugs in greeting one another. All communion servers will wash their hands and use sanitizer before serving communion, the church stated on its website.

This is not meant to be a comprehensive list. Please check with your own place of worship on any changes.