Pandemic Updates

Updated on August 24, 2022

In keeping with the latest guidance from the CDC on masks, quarantine and isolation, the Pandemic Policy Team is relaxing most of our COVID restrictions while we remain in a “low risk” area.  We have adopted new COVID Policy 3.0, and we are in Phase 1 of this policy.

Masks

Masks can inhibit the communication and connection we all come to church for, and we can’t wait to see your smiles. We won’t require masks unless you have been exposed in the last ten days, or have symptoms of respiratory illness. We remain mask-friendly for those who want to wear them, and we will continue to have them available. Wearing a mask provides quite a bit of protection even if those around you are not wearing one, and we encourage everyone to make the choices that feel best to them about masking.

Exposures

Please wear a mask for 10 days after exposure.  Click here for more info about what to do if you’re exposed. 

For those who have COVID

If you test positive or have symptoms and are awaiting test results, please don’t come to church for at least five days (maybe ten) according to the CDC guidance for your situation. The CDC says that even if you qualify to end your isolation after 5 days, you should still mask until day 10.

The CDC is updating its quarantine and isolation calculator.  We will publicize that tool when it’s available.

Vaccinations

Vaccines are not required for most folks, with these exceptions:  All staff, all volunteers working with children, and the choir must have a primary vaccine series plus at least one booster. Vaccinations are one of the things that allow us to loosen restrictions – because they greatly reduce the chance of hospitalization or death if you do catch COVID. So please stay up to date on your vaccines and boosters to protect us all

.

Many of you will rejoice in this news. Some may feel afraid, or have mixed emotions. As a community of care, we are providing many ways for people to participate even if they feel particularly at risk. Our vibrant livestream is available to those both near and far. We will facilitate hybrid gatherings to include people from home for Second Hour, Covenant Groups, and more.

Our policy continues to have a phased response so we can quickly move back to more restrictive phases if circumstances warrant.  We certainly hope that won’t happen and that we can continue to enjoy each others’ smiles and good company for a long time to come.

In celebration,

The Pandemic Policy Team

Jeff Fetter, BJ Entwisle, Rev. Lyn Marshall, Belinda Nerl, Heidi Page, Jim Schlosser, and Lea Smith