ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) – Chemung County Executive Chris Moss released a statement Friday, reminding churches that parking lot services are also prohibited under the state's social distancing mandate.  

Under the executive order (Order 202.10), the gathering of people for “worship services, parties, celebrations or other social events” is banned through at least April 22. 

“We would like to remind our local churches that this type of service [parking lot services] is also prohibited under the aforementioned order,” writes Moss. 

Guidance from the State Department of Health suggests religious leaders consider “alternative forms of worship”, like conference calls, video conferencing and online streaming. 

“We understand and sympathize with our religious organizations who are unable to worship together especially on Easter Sunday,” says Moss. “Unfortunately, we need to continue to practice the best possible social distancing which means staying home.”