Your Vestry has sought to keep everyone safe and follow CDC guidance and Diocesan guidelines throughout the pandemic. Beginning with our June 6 worship service, as we move forward, the following will be in effect:
Masks: To avoid differentiating between those who have been vaccinated and those who have not (including children who are too young to receive a vaccine), we will continue to wear masks during our worship services.
Social Distancing: You may sit in the pews in the church that have seat cushions, hymnals, and prayer books. Keep in mind that some folks are still not comfortable with physical touch (handshake, hugs, etc.) at this time, so ask before reaching out.
Singing: In view of CDC guidance that choral singing is safe for fully vaccinated individuals, we plan to have congregational singing in our worship services while we wear masks. Our choir will also wear masks.
Check-in: We are keeping attendance via a simple check-in system in the Parish Hall; plan to arrive a few minutes early and remember to check-in by giving your name. There is no need to reserve a seat ahead of time.
Communion: Available on the first, third, and fifth Sundays each month, we will celebrate Eucharist in one kind—with bread only. Your mask may be removed as you consume the consecrated wafer. You may receive communion at the altar rail or at the chancel steps, depending on your preference.
Food/Drink: Coffee hour will return at 9:00 a.m., between the two morning services. Please wear your mask unless you are eating or drinking.
Weekday Building Policies: We plan to allow meetings of committees, Bible studies, choir, and other groups at church during the week. Mask wearing and seating arrangements will be at the discretion of the group.
Children’s Activities & Childcare
The CDC has not yet updated their guidelines for children; at this time, the nursery is not open and we are not providing childcare. Children over the age of two must wear a mask while in the building and maintain social distancing until they are vaccinated. As health guidelines are updated and our children, youth, and family ministry evolves, we will adapt.
Additional Thoughts
Each of us processes the pandemic in our own way. As we return to church for in-person events, some will be comfortable with handshakes or hugs while others will prefer to maintain social distance. We are confident that unvaccinated persons will consider the safety of others in relations to wearing masks and social distancing. Whether you are ready to return to church in-person or whether you plan to continue worshipping online for awhile, we are thankful you are part of our faith community! If you have questions or comments, please contact The Rev. Duane Nettles, Rector.
Adult Choir Rehearsals
Remember our adult choir will be leading hymns and service music during the summer months…you can volunteer for this music ministry by contacting Beth Davis.
