Religious gatherings back on in New York

ALBANY | Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Wednesday during his daily press briefing that religious services can once again be held - although with a limit of 10 people attending indoor ceremonies at once. While he recognized the importance of resuming religious gatherings - he also stressed the importance of continued social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic and noted that masks would be required. Cuomo said drive-in services in parking lots would be a better alternative to normal congregations and would allow larger groups of people to safely gather. All services will officially be allowed Thursday. "I understand their desire to get back to religious ceremonies as soon as possible. As a former altar boy, I get it," said Cuomo. "At this time of stress - and people are so anxious and confused - I think religious ceremonies can be very comforting. But, we need to find out how to do it safely and do it smartly. The last thing we want to do is have a religious ceremony that winds up with more people infected." Cuomo pointed to the early breakout in New Rochelle and Westchester among orthodox groups as an example of just how dangerous these gathering can be if not held correctly. The governor's office has been in regular contact with the Interfaith Advisory Council, and everyone is working hard to find a solution that allows for religious freedom while at the same time keeping the public safe. "We all want to do the same thing, the question is: how do we do it, and how do we do it smartly?"

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Religious gatherings back on in New York

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