Factcheck: Is the US COVID-19 lockdown an attempt to stop Catholics celebrating Easter?

FURTHER INFORMATION

This video says that President Trump’s adviser Dr Fauci and other scientists are using the social distancing measures as an excuse to shut down religious buildings, and so stop people practicing their faith. 

This story is false, we have written previously about attempts to discredit Dr Fauci by accusing him of misleading the President. Social distancing measures have been implemented in many countries to reduce the close contact of citizens and so slow the spread of the coronavirus (SAR-COV-2). These measures have included closing public places like churches, restaurants, bars and sports stadiums. 

Due to their size and the close proximity of the congregation, churches are thought to be ideal places where the virus can easily spread from person to person. In South Korea, it is thought one worshipper infected at least 37 of the congregation with Covid-19 by attending several church services, despite running a fever. Where possible churches have looked at new ways of reaching their congregation in a safe way, such as live streaming services using a video link.

SOURCE

UK Cabinet Office: Staying alert and safe (social distancing) until 4 July

Centre for Disease Control: Social distancing, quarantine and isolation

Live Science: Superspreader in South Korea infects nearly 40 people with coronavirus

Guardian: Keeping the faith – how places of worship have adapted to the coronavirus crisis

Origins of Claim

FULL TEXT OF CLAIM

“Where are we supposed to be, at a minimum, every Sunday?

Go to Mass every Sunday. We have a duty to god, and we fulfill that duty by going to Mass.

What is the most solemn and joyful time of year?

Easter.

If Anthony Fauci and if friends have their way, this weekend what will we be deprived of?

Going to Mass and worshipping god.

Is this an acceptable or intolerable situation?

I think that it’s unacceptable. ”