Vice President Mike Pence meets with religious leaders in Iowa

Vice President Mike Pence speaks during a discussion with local faith leaders to encourage them to resume in-person church services in a responsible fashion in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Friday, May 8, 2020, in Urbandale, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

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UPDATED 7:05 PM PT — Friday, May 8, 2020

Vice President Mike Pence met with a group of faith leaders in Iowa this week to discuss the importance of religious institutions amid the coronavirus pandemic. On Friday, he thanked religious leaders in Des Moines and said they have made an incalculable difference on the nation during these challenging times.

Thank you to Pastor Michael Mudlaff and Westkirk Presbyterian Church for welcoming us today. During this epidemic we couldn’t be more proud of the way houses of worship, religious charities, and religious ministries have stepped up to care for the American people. pic.twitter.com/6X5GYPQTom

— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) May 9, 2020

He also noted social distancing measures prohibiting parishioners from congregating have been a burden on churches.

The vice president said he hopes these leaders will continue efforts as states prepare to reopen, stressing it will help strengthen the country.

“The importance of now being able to reopen America, a priority that the president put forward two weeks ago…, includes the importance of opening up the institutions that strengthen the heart and soul of the American people,” stated Pence.

Vice President Mike Pence listens to a question from Temple B’nai Jeshurun Rabbi David Kaufman, left, during a discussion with local faith leaders to encourage them to resume in-person church services in a responsible fashion in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Friday, May 8, 2020, in Urbandale, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

While some leaders argued it is too early to start opening up churches, others confirmed they will begin services within the coming weeks.

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