State of New York
Executive Chamber
Albany 12224
Andrew M. Cuomo
GOVERNOR
Dear Marc,
Thank you for serving as a member of the New York Forward Interfaith Advisory Council.
Your engagement and partnership will help guide the re-opening of our religious institutions throughout New York State, as we recover from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency. Our goal is to safely resume religious gatherings and services through a region-based and data-driven approach that allows people to resume worship without triggering widespread transmission of the virus, which could endanger lives and overwhelm the healthcare system.
Faith leaders will play a critical role as we begin the process of ‘un-pausing’ New York, restarting our economy, and shaping a new normal. I want to thank you for your willingness to help the State navigate this unprecedented challenge. Wherever possible, we will try to coordinate our efforts across regions to ensure that we have a comprehensive approach that protects and promotes public health while allowing your institutions to resume the important work of attending to the spiritual well-being of New Yorkers.
Together with your leadership, the New York Forward Interfaith Advisory Council strategy will chart the path toward a better, brighter, and more resilient state for all New Yorkers. I look forward to working with you in the days ahead.
Sincerely,
