WJRS Local News has learned that officials notified the Russell Springs Nazarene Church and the Faith Temple Full Gospel church, both located on West Highway 80 in Russell Springs, that those churches must abide by the recent Executive Order of Governor Andy Beshear regarding church closures because of the coronavirus.
Reportedly, both churches had continued to have regular services, even last Sunday, despite the Governor’s order which was issued two weeks ago. There has been growing concern from public health officials across the state as a result of numerous positive coronavirus cases stemming from church attendance.
WJRS Local News learned from sources that the Russell Springs Nazarene church immediately agreed to comply upon delivery and receipt of the Governor’s order on Saturday. However, sources report that Gene Sneed, pastor of the Faith Temple Full Gospel church, reportedly told officials his church would still meet yesterday despite the Governor’s Order.
That reportedly prompted officials from the Lake Cumberland District Health Department to prepare a Cease and Desist letter to the church. That cease and desist letter was posted at the church early Sunday morning.
The church did not have Sunday morning services but reportedly did have drive up services yesterday afternoon. WJRS Local News attempted to contact Pastor Sneed last night for a comment on this matter but was unsuccessful.
