Today, Texas Governor Greg Abbott released an executive order stating that "every person in Texas shall avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people." The order includes other restrictions as well and will remain in effect through April 3. Read Gov. Abbott's full order here. 

Of course this action requires that the majority of our churches suspend in-person worship and other ministries, throughout the duration of this order. We urge groups of fewer than 10 people to observe appropriate caution and to use alternate means of staying connected whenever possible. As we have stated, we are taking these measures not only for the sake of our own health and that of our families; we also seek to do all we can to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on the lives of people in our communities. 

As United Methodists in Rio Texas, you have already proven yourselves to be creative and faithful during this crisis. You are blessing one another, serving one another, and creating new ways of sharing God’s good news with the world around you. Keep the faith, and do not lose heart! The grace and peace of Christ be with you and your churches in the days to come.  Robert Schnase Bishop, Rio Texas Conference 

Robert Schnase
Bishop, Rio Texas Conference

PDF of Statement

Continue to visit this page to get more information, updates and resources the Rio Texas Conference will be preparing and providing in regards to the Coronavirus.