As millions of stores across the United States close down to the public, Hobby Lobby continues to stay open throughout the coronavirus pandemic in states that have yet to order non-essential businesses to close. Hobby Lobby is taking measures to ensure safe shopping for the customers and adequate working conditions for their employees. On their website, they state they have introduced “enhanced cleaning” techniques and banned international travel.

“If an employee is suspected of having COVID-19 based on symptoms and/or known direct or indirect exposure, we will send that employee for medical care and to self-isolate at home, and will promptly coordinate with public health officials,” the company, which has a total of 900 stores around the U.S., said.

In a letter allegedly penned by Hobby Lobby’s founder, David Green, the chain is monitoring the crisis closely, however, is putting their faith in God during this time.

“While we do not know for certain what the future holds, or how long this disruption will last, we can all rest in knowing that God is in control…To help ensure our Company remains strong and prepared to prosper once again when this passes, we may all have to ‘tighten our belts’ over the near future,” he stated.

In the letter, Green calls his wife, Barbara, a prayer warrior. During her prayer time this week, she was reminded that God is in control and that He will “guide, guard, and groom”.

“We serve a God who will Guide us through this storm, who will Guard us as we travel to places never seen before, and who, as a result of this experience, will Groom us to be better than we could have ever thought possible before now.”

Other stores continue to remain open during this time, like Michael’s Arts and Crafts. Yet other Christian backed retailers, like Chick-fil-a and Walmart, are reducing hours and limiting customer contact.