Updated Recommendations Issued For Church Primary Programs In Utah

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Updated recommendations for Primary leaders, parents, and children during the COVID-19 pandemic have been announced by the Utah Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In a letter issued Friday, the presidency expressed concern for children who have been unable to attend Primary classes and activities for almost a year.

“We are truly thankful for the efforts of Primary leaders and parents who provide a home-centered gospel learning experience and other activities with the support of Church leaders and resources,” the letter read.

They provided recommendations for baptisms, home-centered Primary, and staying connected.

“Under the direction of a member of the bishopric, baptismal services will likely be limited to family and close friends, with a focus on the simplicity and purity of the ordinance. Others may view baptismal services remotely using technology,” the letter read.

Parents and leaders have been encouraged to provide home-centered gospel learning opportunities.

“We ask leaders to pay close attention to children whose parents struggle with temporal and spiritual challenges,” the letter stated.

Additionally, Primary leaders and teachers were asked to find creative and safe ways to stay connected to the children they teach.

“Leaders should counsel together and ask what they can do, rather than what they cannot do in these circumstances,” the letter read.

Stake and ward leaders have been asked to find new options and times to conduct virtual or in-person Primary classes, singing times, and activities “where local conditions and health guidelines permit, while maintaining all appropriate safety protocols.”

“As we continue to counsel with senior leaders of the Church and as conditions in the Utah Area improve, we will continue to support your efforts with additional modifications to these and other guidelines,” the letter read.