Dear brothers and sisters of St. Peter’s, Eldorado,

On the afternoon of July 30^th, 2020, Wisconsin Governor Evers issued a mandate that required mask-wearing in all public places, with certain exceptions.  This applies also to religious services. 

The subject of wearing masks has become a hotly-contested topic in our country.  Those strong differences of opinions exist even among our members.  We acknowledge that this mandate from our governor will be welcomed by some of our members and will upset others.  Some might feel more comfortable coming to church with this mandate, while others who have been coming may now choose to remain home.

It is not the responsibility of St. Peter’s to actively police and enforce the wearing of masks in our sanctuary.  What’s more, County Sheriff Ryan Waldschmidt has publicly stated that he has no intentions to enforce the mandate (see below).  However, our Lord reminds us in places like Romans 13:1-6 and I Peter 2:13-17 that we are called to “submit to the governing authorities.”  These words include every law and mandate that comes from our government officials, regardless of whether we agree with them or not, with the exception if they command us to act and speak against our Lord (Acts 5:29).  Therefore, out of love for God and obedience to the 4^th Commandment, we ask that all members who plan on worshiping in person would be masked unless they fall under the list of exceptions in the official document from our governor, which can be found here.

If you do not have a mask yet, disposable masks are on-hand at church for your use.

Thank you for your cooperation during these difficult times.  May God continue to bless the ministry of St. Peter’s.

Pastor Aaron Odya