I hope that you, your families, and faith communities are well during these challenging times. On March 10, 2020, NC Governor Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency in North Carolina to coordinate the state’s response and protective actions to stop the spread of the novel Coronavirus 2019, referred to as  COVID-19, and it’s related health, economic, and social impact in North Carolina.

Since that time, multiple Executive and DHHS Secretarial orders have been issued that have radically changed the normal way of life for many North Carolinians including how and where we practice our faith. Many faith leaders and places of worship have been impacted by the COVID19 pandemic in manifold ways ranging from closing the doors to their sanctuaries, thereby limiting direct contact with members to changing the format of and the way they conduct services. And unfortunately for some, there have been extreme financial burdens that have limited ministerial capacity.

NC DHHS Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen would like to discuss COVID’s impact and explore ways with faith leaders that we can best help you serve the faith communities that you lead. A NC Faith Leaders COVID Briefing and Listening Session with NC DHHS Secretary, Dr. Mandy Cohen is scheduled for this Friday, September 25 at 1:00 p.m.  The purpose of this COVID briefing and listening session is to hear your concerns and feedback as a faith leader about the state’s strategies and response to the COVID19 pandemic, with a particular focus on its impact on houses of worship and our faith communities in North Carolina.

Secretary Cohen is eager to listen and receive your guidance on ways that we can better support our faith communities as we work our way through this global health pandemic. Please feel free to share with other faith leaders and stakeholders in your network.