On October 8, 2020, Church spokesman Eric Hawkins released the following update on Elder Gerrit W. Gong and Sister Susan Gong, who were diagnosed with COVID-19 earlier this week. He said:
Elder and Sister Gong continue to experience very mild symptoms of COVID-19 and are recovering at home. They are grateful for the many prayers and expressions of concern and love. Out of an abundance of caution, all members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles were tested, and all tests were negative. Church leaders will continue to exercise caution and follow all health guidelines related to COVID-19 and encourage our members to do the same.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Church leaders have urged Latter-day Saints to wear masks, wash their hands, and follow guidelines as implemented by their local governments. In the October 2020 General Conference, President Russell M. Nelson expressed his condolences for all those impacted by the virus.
“During the past few months, a global pandemic, raging wildfires, and other natural disasters have turned our world upside down. I grieve with each of you who has lost a loved one during this time. And I pray for all who are currently suffering.”
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
