Effective May 1, 2020 spiritual/religious gatherings are allowed in the State of Iowa so long as measures are taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Know what organizations can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

• Apply social distancing guidelines (stay 6 feet apart from those not in your household, discourage handshaking or other physical contact)
• Reduce group activities
• Consider smaller in-person services or conducting services outdoors
• Follow sanitation and hygiene measures (establish a one-way traffic pattern, prop doors to minimize touching, avoid passing items through multiple congregants)
• Whenever possible, conduct activities from home or through remote audio/video services
• Encourage staff and members to stay home if sick
• Clean frequently touched surfaces daily
• Encourage hand hygiene and have supplies readily available

Links for more information:

CDC:

• COVID-19 Community & Faith-Based Organizations Webpage
• COVID-19 Checklist for Communities of Faith
• FAQs for Administrators and Leaders at Community- and Faith-Based Organizations
• Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes

Iowa:

• Guidance for Spiritual and Religious Gatherings During COVID-19