Dear Church Family,
We are grateful that there is a return to some of the activities that are meaningful to us. Everything from getting a haircut to eating in some of our favorite restaurants has returned to some of our lives. This week our Governor posted criteria for Churches to incorporate into their plans as we open back up. There wasn't much that was new in the guidelines; 6 feet social distancing, handwashing or sanitizing stations, wearing masks, avoid physical contact and touching surfaces. The unexpected realization was a guideline to avoid congregational singing or recitations. Why? Because of the chance of contamination by moisture droplets reaching others within our 6 feet protection. Something we hadn't considered.
We've received calls from congregants wanting to know when we will resume live in-person services. The Board of Trustees is prayerfully moving cautiously. I agree with this decision to address the resumption of services again at the next Board meeting at the end of June. In short that means we will not have in-person services in June. But we will begin to work toward availing a live Sunday morning service in the near future.
You may be asking - why wait? We have guidelines, we're allowed to open, why the delay? For a few reasons: 1) We care for your safety. At this writing we can accommodate 20 persons or parties for safe seating. That might not change in the next month, but it is a consideration. 2) We are still establishing a bathroom protocol - that insures sanitation and ease of use. Every surface we touch needs to be cleaned for the safety of the next person touching them. 3) The worship team needs to regroup - the taping of services we provide for you do not flow like the actual worship experience that you are accustomed to. There are conversations, clarifications and reshoots of the segments taped. WE need to change our format to accommodate both the live service and the taped presentation.
You are beloved of God and we hold your safety sacred. Join us in prayer affirming guidance and divine order as we navigate our return to live in-person services.
Many blessings,
Pastor Robert