Youth Meetings and Covid-19 Restrictions

Dear Parents of Youth, Young Women Class Presidencies, Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Presidencies, Bishoprics, and Adult Young Men and Young Women Leaders:

We recognize that in these very unique times it can be challenging (and sometimes a little frustrating) to understand what we can and cannot do in terms of when, and how, and with whom we can meet for church related services, meetings, and activities.

We also recognize that due to the frequency of changing information and high calling turnover, that some of you may not have received clear direction in the past when it comes to youth meetings and activities. Assignment: This is why we request that adult ward youth leadership (Bishoprics and Young Women Presidencies) communicate this information to all Young Women Class Presidencies and Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Presidencies, and to the parents of all the youth. (Once this has been communicated to members of your respective wards, please have your ward executive secretary report back to Brother Keith Kato)

The following “general direction” is taken from the General Handbook of the Church and the “covid-19 specific direction” comes from the most recent correspondence provided by Church leadership.

No matter your calling in the Church or your age, we encourage all to be students of the handbook and be aware of the frequent inspired updates found therein, so we can be sure that our efforts continue to be aligned with the prophet. Speaking of effort, we recognize and very much appreciate the effort that has, and continues to be, freely given to support our wonderful youth. General Direction for Youth Activities: Activities at the ward level bring Church members together as “fellow citizens with the saints”. Youth activities should help young men and young women connect with their peers, their leaders, and to their families, to give them a sense of belonging, mutual support, and assist the development of their testimony. Church activities should be planned to fulfill gospel-centered purposes. In addition to these principles we remind parents, youth, and youth leaders that:

Parents are responsible to teach their children the gospel and help them live it. The bishopric and adult youth leaders, with help from advisers, support parents in this responsibility Class and quorum presidencies, supported by adult leaders, plan service and activities. These should help accomplish the work of salvation and exaltation.

Attendance at activities is encouraged but should not be used as a gauge of worthiness or strength of testimony. Please remember that many of our youth are involved in worthwhile activities from extra-curricular clubs and programs, to sports, and work. Their time is precious and should be treated as such. Please ensure that each activity is planned with intent and purpose.

COVID-19 Specific Direction: We have noted some challenges in how personal safety standards are maintained in gatherings when feelings and emotions are tender. However, as leaders we have an obligated responsibility to represent the Church and its leadership. During this unprecedented time, Church leaders have encouraged all to take steps to protect ourselves and one another during the pandemic, including wearing masks, frequently washing hands, and social distancing. Out of an abundance of caution and to be good fellow citizens, neighbors, and members of the Lord’s Church, all wards should follow the specific guidelines below in accordance with direction from The First Presidency and Utah Area Presidency until such time a new direction is conveyed.

Youth Sunday Meetings:

All second hour meetings should not be in-person.

Presidency meetings should continue to be held frequently and should take advantage of technology where possible. If in-person presidency/leadership meetings need to be held, then proper social distancing/mask wearing is required.

Youth Weekday Meetings and Activities:

We encourage continued innovative planning that engages the youth in meaningful activities in safely managed environments that respectfully care for the physical wellbeing of the youth. We have seen this through the use of both technology and small group gatherings.

Small in-person youth gatherings may occur, with the stipulation that they be limited to individual quorums and classes. Furthermore, Church leadership has given us counsel to “use wisdom in the number of people that gather in-person for other meetings and councils. Please strictly comply with current safety measures, including social distancing, wearing of masks, cleaning of rooms and surfaces between meetings, etc. We encourage you to continue using technology, where possible. We trust in your wise judgment as you apply these guidelines to your local circumstances.”

Masks must be worn at all activities where social distancing cannot be maintained at all times.

Youth should not feel pressured into attending activities; but rather youth should be lovingly invited to participate.

These specific guidelines will remain until otherwise notified. If you have questions please communicate them to your Bishop.

President Nelson encouraged at the last General Conference that, “If you really want to embrace a new normal, I invite you to turn your heart, mind, and soul increasingly to our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Let that be your new normal.” We all love the youth; the future generation of the Church. May we all use this unique time to minister and reach out to others in unique and inspired ways.

The Stake Presidency Scott S. Langford Kevin K. Wunder Justin B. Pitcher