Elder Dale Renlund, along with his wife Sister Ruth Renlund, both tested positive for the coronavirus, church officials announced in a statement Saturday. (Photo courtesy The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
Elder Dale G. Renlund, an apostle for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, says wearing masks does not need to be politicized or contentious.
Renlund, a retired cardiologist, and his wife Ruth, a former trial lawyer both tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend. He said his symptoms are mild and Ruth doesn’t have any.
But before that announcement, Elder Renlund recorded a video that was later posted on social media.
“As it relates to this pandemic, especially in temples, that means social distancing, wearing a mask and not gathering in large groups,” he said in the video. “These steps demonstrate our love for others, and provide us a measure of protection.”
Elder Renlund said wearing a face covering is a sign of Christlike love for our brothers and sisters.
“COVID-19 is serious. Its consequences are not yet fully understood,” he said.
The Church has donated or sewed millions of masks for healthcare workers around the world dating to January 2020. The president of the Church, President Russell M. Nelson, is also a retired doctor.