Governor Ducey - please do not force the closure of our churches!

In these times of pandemic and economic crisis, we understand the need for the state to act decisively to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. 

We also agree with the Arizona Constitution that the essential purpose of the State is to protect and maintain individual rights (source). 

We further recognize the pressing spiritual need to gather in prayer to beseech God to bring an end to this epidemic and seek His ongoing protection and help.

There is no reason for any of these things to be in conflict. In Christian love, we seek to serve our neighbors and community:

1. By causing no harm and certainly not causing the spread of the virus through our own carelessness or presumption.
2. By committing our resources and abilities to help our community and state in every way possible to combat this pandemic.
3. By praying and begging God to bring an end to the epidemic and protect our communities from the infection.

Governor Ducey, we therefore petition you to allow the churches in Arizona to remain open! 

• Please follow the example of both Republican and Democratic governors of others states (such as Texas, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and several others), who have exempted religious organizations from mandatory restrictions (source). 
• Please recognize that the overwhelming majority of congregations in Arizona are already taking voluntary measures, such as meeting online, to protect the community against the spread of the virus. (source, source, source)
• Please recognize that many countries (such as South Korea, Sweden, and several others) have contained the virus while avoiding shutdowns and restrictions on religious assembly, using widespread voluntary testing and similar means (source, source, source)
• We ask you never to assume unconstitutional authority to restrict peaceable assembly for the common good (AZ Constitution)
• We ask you never to follow the example of totalitarian regimes that claim the authority to restrict fundamental religious rights.

For our part, we, the undersigned, also pledge to act responsibly with love for our neighbor and community to prevent the spread of the virus.

We know you have many difficult decisions to make, and pray that the Lord will give you guidance, wisdom, and courage.

Offered with prayer and respect,
The Undersigned