The Church in Guam as Pandemic Restrictions Ease

Monday evening, May 2^nd, Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero signed an executive order that rescinded the mask requirement, more than two years after the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The choice for mask wearing is left to residents of Guam now, while giving local businesses the choice whether to enforce mask requirements for their individual establishments.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Guam is following the Governors lead by offering the choice to wear a mask in their church buildings.

Members assemble, as in the past, but the pews now have hymn books. The meetinghouse rings out with joyous song and many smiles brighten the building as members attend classes and socialize. Less restrictions are welcomed by these church goers with comments of freer breathing. Diann Lore of the Barrigada ward expressed, "I am so grateful. Now, when I attend church, I can see everyone's smiling faces." She continues, "The one thing that I enjoy most is that I can hear what people are saying."

Kaela Martinez in the Barrigada Ward says, "as a volunteer song chorister for sacrament meetings, I feel joyful being able to smile and sing at people as I lead them in songs. Seeing their smiles gives me strength!" 

Guam's members are receiving many blessings, one of which is the Yigo Temple dedication May 22nd where it can offer ordinance work without restrictions. 

Convictions run strong with these members. The restrictions, though sometimes challenging, have not diminished the spirit of these faithful disciples. Without judgement of what people choose, the Barrigada Guam Stake family continues to reach out to others in unconditional love.

What a great time to be alive to see the miracles that come daily. The Church continues to press forward in the faith of Jesus Christ as members are stregthened by challenges.