SPRINGFIELD, Mo (KMOX) - A mega church in Missouri is facing backlash after hosting a large Christmas event over the weekend.
Photos circulated on social media showing a large crowd of people gathered at James River Church in Springfield, Mo for the annual "James River Christmas" service. Many attendees weren't wearing masks and appear to be sitting less than six feet apart.
Photos of the event were posted on the church's Instagram page.
In years past, the event has involved pyrotechnics, extreme sports, concerts and dance routines.
Springfield-Greene County Health Director Clay Goddard took to Twitter to say he was shocked and deeply saddened to see photos from the event.
"By and large, our local churches have been great examples of staying emotionally connected while protecting one another in this pandemic—this example does not do those congregations justice," Goddard says.
The church responded by saying they are committed to doing a better job of encouraging and maintaining procedures necessary to keep people safe and secure.
"We have strongly encouraged masking and social distancing each and every weekend during this challenging season," the church said in a statement to multiple media outlets. "For the Christmas services, additional services were added to further provide for social distancing. Going forward, we are committed to doing a better job of encouraging and maintaining the procedures necessary to keep people safe and secure."
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