Local Lemoore church worshippers stage protest march in their efforts to worship in downtown's Living Word Church

The event began at approximately 6 p.m. and included music and a sermon from Pastor Albert Toralez. The church also distributed boxes of fruit to those in attendance and others who passed by.

The group, following the remarks, began the peaceful march down E Street before returning on D Street.

"We're fighting for our rights to congregate inside our buildings," said Toralez, one of the organizers and Living Word's pastor. "We're bringing unity with most of the community and the churches. We have the right to assemble in our church."

However, according to state guidance documents, convening in a congregational setting to practice a personal faith carries a relatively higher risk for widespread transmission of the COVID-19 virus. It may result in increased rates of infection, hospitalization, and death, especially among more vulnerable populations.

In particular, state health officials say that some activities, such as singing and chanting, "negate the risk reduction achieved through six feet of physical distancing." Kings County health officials ordered local businesses to close down indoor operations and, if possible, move to outdoor services until further notice. The order applies to indoor worship services.

Some local churches are using online services so spread the word, while others continue to meet outside, utilizing social distancing. Toralez used the shady area adjacent to the area's water fountain to deliver his remarks. Spectators and worshipers sat beneath shade trees as he spoke.

"The (cannabis) dispensary is there, and it's open," said the local pastor, referring to one of the two cannabis dispensaries in Lemoore. One is located directly across the street from the church.

 "I see them gathering right there in the parking lot. And, in the back of us is another one (dispensary). We want a meeting inside," said Toralez. "I understand about the distancing and all that. We have sanitizing stations. We have all that."

Will they remain outside as the country battles the fierce virus? "I can't really answer that now," said Toralez. "I'm hoping it won't get to that point. That's why we had the march. We hope to have the services inside."

Toralez told The Leader that the church wouldn't flout the guidelines and said they would continue to meet outside as long as the state says it's unsafe to congregate in churches.