
Earlier this week,the mayor of Monroe, Ohio, asked the pastors of Solid Rock Church to stop holding services on Sunday to help prevent the spread of the current virus that has put the country in crisis.
“Please remember, that bringing together large numbers of people only increases the pace at which this virus spreads,” the mayor wrote. “During this pandemic, I applaud you for continuing your services; however, please reconsider your choice to officer in-person services.”
Religious services are currently exempt under Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s stay-at-home order, and the church has continued to hold in-person services. Several church members were interviewed by CNN and one churchgoer, in particular, had a pretty ludicrous explanation as to why she was going to continue going to attend services despite the mayor’s pleas.
Reporter: Are you worried you could infect other people if you get sick inside?
Woman: No, I’m covered in Jesus’ blood.
Tired: Wearing masks in public 😷
Wired: Covering yourself in Jesus’ blood 🩸
🤦♀️ pic.twitter.com/EJWV93cGfJ
— Ramp Capital (@RampCapitalLLC) April 4, 2020
Another congregant, who had hugged several people while walking into the church, echoed the lady’s remarks about the blood of Jesus protecting her from the virus.
Woman hugs a bunch of people walking into church, then says "the blood of Jesus cures every disease" pic.twitter.com/JdEYrl9WQx
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) April 5, 2020
The Solid Rock Church released a statement about how they were going to continue to perform church services despite calls for them to close during the current crisis.
We at Solid Rock Church share everyone’s concern to help keep people safe. The First Amendment of our Constitution guarantees freedom concerning religion, expression, and assembly. It specifically forbids congress from restricting an individual’s religious practices. Therefore, the government ban on large gatherings does not apply to religious worship. There is no pressure from Solid Rock Church to require anyone to come to our services. We are respectful of every individuals right to choose either to come to our service or to watch online. We do believe that it is important for our doors to remain open for whomever to come to worship and pray during this time of great challenge in our country.”