Chicago churches fined $500 for defying social-distancing restrictions

The Chicago Police Department has fined three churches $500 each for defying coronavirus social distancing restrictions by holding in-person services, making good on Mayor Lori Lighftoot’s warning that the city would “be taking action” against them.

New York pastor threatened with $1,000 fine for holding drive-in church service

A New York church with 40 members held a drive-in service Sunday after being warned by police that it was a violation of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's stay-at-home order amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Chicago churches split on obeying stay-at-home order

Some churches continue to defy Illinois’ stay-at-home order, saying they have found ways to reopen safely.

Some churches reopen but skip singing after report of mass outbreak after choir practice

Some churches are reopening but will skip the singing for now, especially after a report shows that 87% of the members of a church choir became infected after a single practice in March.

Chicago church defies mayor, plans Sunday service amid COVID-19 pandemic

As the stay-at-home order nears its second straight month, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot is trying to stop churchgoers from defying it.

Local churches, Dr. Willie Wilson mount new challenge to Governor Pritzker

We have told you about individual churches going against Governor JB Pritzker's stay-at-home order. But now, a group of 100 local pastors are joining forces saying it is time to open back up.

Federal judge rejects Illinois churches' challenge to stay-at-home order

A federal judge on Wednesday rejected a challenge to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s authority to impose stay-at-home orders on churches in the battle against the coronavirus.

Albany Park church holds Sunday service despite governor's orders
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Pastor Christian Ionescu of Elim Romanian Pentecostal Church talks about his decision to hold service for parishioners against the statewide guidance on gatherings of more than 10 people.

Chicago church service on Mother's Day attracts 200 people

More than 200 people left their homes on Mother's Day and went to church, and leaders at the Albany Park church who hosted the service say they will do it again.

Chicago-area priest appointed coadjutor of the Diocese of Peoria

Pope Francis announced Monday that he has named suburban Chicago priest Rev. Louis Tylka to be the coadjutor bishop of Peoria.

Elgin church draws ire of Gov. Pritzker with decision to open ahead of state mandate
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Jeremy Dys, attorney from First Liberty Institute, talks about why Northwest Bible Baptist Church refuses to adhere to Gov. Pritzker's ban on gatherings of 10 or more people.

Pastor talks about decision to defy Pritzker's stay-at-home order
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Pastor Steve Cassell of Beloved Church in Lena elaborates on his decision to hold services in defiance of Gov. Pritzker's stay-at-home order.

Revised order will allow small, safe worship services in Illinois

Illinois will allow small, safe worship services during the coronavirus pandemic, according to a modified extension of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order that took effect Friday.