Dear Ocala First Church Family,
We have tough news to share this week. This past Tuesday, June 2, one of our staff members tested positive for Covid-19, after feeling ill over the weekend. We have been working with staff and a few volunteers who have been on campus, to trace our exposure and contacts with one another, checking in with our primary care physicians and being tested as appropriate. Some staff members may need to self-quarantine. We began a thorough sanitizing of our church facility this afternoon.
We had a long conversation with our primary care physician this morning. Based on some interactions David had with this employee on Tuesday, our doctor was unequivocal that we both need to self-quarantine for 14 days (through June 17). The nature of the exposure makes it a gray area, but as pastors, we feel an ethical responsibility to be cautious, ensuring we do not cause harm to others. We will follow our doctor’s orders to self-quarantine, monitor for any symptoms and be tested next week.
We covet your prayers for our staff, both for those who have or may have the virus, and for the anxiety these circumstances inevitably bring. We are blessed with a wonderful staff and never want to take their, or your, health and safety for granted.
Even with these new developments, the discussion about re-launching our in-person ministries is ongoing. You can find the latest information, documents and resources on our website
(CLICK HERE)
We will continue to emphasize and prioritize the clear scientific consensus related to religious services outlined by the CDC including the wearing of masks, social distancing, sanitizing, and other measures. We will have several proposals for Church Council to consider on Thursday, June 4.
We appreciate your prayers and patience as we work diligently to ensure the safest environment and the most meaningful worship possible.
Online worship and our Cox 21 broadcast will continue to be our primary way of worshiping together over the summer, even as we take our first steps towards gathering in person.
We love you! We miss you! We are praying for you!
Pastors Anne and David Fuquay