Communication from your COVID-19 Task Force
The COVID-19 Task Force has started preparations for returning to In-Person services at St. James. There is a lot to be done before we can gather together again, as we are required to be in compliance with the Diocese of Delaware, State, and CDC guidance. The Task Force is studying the report from Bishop Brown that contains all the required procedures we have to follow. This report is available for your review on the Episcopal Church in Delaware's website. Currently, the Task Force is preparing the St. James' Certification Plan, which is required to be reviewed and approved by the Bishop prior to reopening. We
cannot
return to services prior to receiving the Bishop’s blessing. Once that is received, we will complete final preparations for a safe return to church.
We are targeting the first public worship on 8/23/2020, subject to everything being in place at that time. Your health and well-being are our main concerns.
As a result of all the mandatory guidelines, service will be a little different.
·
For the foreseeable future, St. James will hold only one service at 9:30 AM each Sunday utilizing minimal worship personnel. Choir and acolyting are currently suspended.
·
It will be
mandatory
to wear face masks while in the church.
·
Social distancing will be in effect, which will limit the number of people who can attend. Be prepared, you will most likely not get to sit in your favorite spot.
·
Hand sanitizer will be provided so that people entering can sanitize their hands before being seated.
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We will be asking people to use alternate forms of greetings that don’t involve physical contact, e.g. bowing during the Peace.
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We are encouraging anyone that is high risk for COVID to consult with your Physician prior to returning to church.
There is absolutely
no
pressure to return to church in person. We will continue to have online services for those who do not feel comfortable being around others, and coffee hour will continue to be virtual until further notice. The Task Force will be sending out information shortly via mail, email, e-Epistle, and phone to provide more details about what you need to know to attend church safely. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the church or anyone on the COVID-19 Task Force.
If you participate in one of our other ministries, we are limiting all small group gatherings to essential only and are strongly encouraging all small group meetings to be conducted via Zoom. All in-person small group gatherings will require prior permission from the rector or a warden. In the event that permission is granted for an in-person small group gathering, the contact person will be required to sanitize all contact surfaces before leaving the premises.
The COVID-19 Task Force is continuing to assess the situation and will provide updates as information becomes available. As we get closer to fall, the Task Force will provide an update as to the status of the Turkey Dinner and Bazaar. Your safety is our top priority.
Thanks from your COVID-19 Task Force
Fr. Kim Capwell, Valerie Brunson, Jerry Clark, Eileen Marvel, Nancy Patterson, Lynn Morgan, and Bruce Vrana.
