#Coronavirus

What an interesting time we live in? The coronavirus has been something else. Initially, Idaho was one of the last 2 states to have a documented case of Covid-19. Also the media did their fair share of creating panic and hype about the virus.

Also we are living in unprecedented times in relation to how it has affected the meetings and activities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

• On March 11, the First Presidency announced significant changes to the format of the April 2020 General Conference. Attendance of the conference will be limited. Specifically the public will not be in attendance. Only the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square, The General Authorities, General officers of the church and their spouses will be in attendance.
• On March 12, the First Presidency of the Church suspended all gatherings worldwide. I’ve never known of a time in the history of the church which this has happened. I’ve had church canceled due to icy / snowy weather in local wards and branches, however never for the entire worldwide church. The announcement also stated the Stake Presidents will meet with the Bishops to ensure the members will receive the sacrament at least once a month.
• On March 13, The Church announced that as of the 16th, Temples would only accept appointments for living ordinances. Where government or other restrictions do not preclude all temple activity, only living ordinances will be performed, proxy temple ordinances will not be performed
• March 14, was a very busy day at the Boise, Idaho Temple. This was in essence the final day the temple would be open for proxy work for the foreseeable future. Had some great discussions with those I work with at the Temple. Also some of the words to various ordinances had special meaning to me as in this time of my life.
• March 19, The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles announced additional changes to April 2020 conference. Each session will be broadcast from a small auditorium on Temple Square. The First Presidency will preside and conduct those sessions, and only those who have been invited to speak or pray will attend. The music for the conference has been pre-recorded.
• March 24, The Boise Idaho Temple will be closed for all ordinances until May 4th, 2020
• March 25, The First Presidency temporarily closes all Temples worldwide. This is also something that has never happened in the history of the church.

While this is happening, however, it has been a blessing to be able to have church at home. Specifically, being able to participate in the ordinance of the sacrament with my wife. The dogs also thought they need to participate, so they joined us on the couch.