(La Porte, IN) - La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody did not say indoor church services should be banned in response to rising COVID-19 cases as previously reported by 96-7 The Eagle and Rock 106.5 news.

Instead, he said churches should consider providing or continuing to provide virtual services and other forms of socially distanced services as an option due to the risk posed by large gatherings of any type.

His comments were made during a Facebook Live broadcast he hosted Tuesday to further inform viewers about the virus, the impact its having on hospitals and how to best avoid infection with help from a local physician.

In response to complaints he received from the reporting error, which aired on radio stations 96.7 The Eagle and the new Rock 106.5, Mayor Dermody further clarified his remarks today.

“Faith is an important part of many people’s lives, including my own. It’s especially critical now in the midst of the pandemic that churches, if able, provide residents with options, including virtual services, so they can worship in a way that makes them feel safe and comfortable. These are tough times, but we will get through them together.”

We regret the mistake caused by his statements being misinterpreted.