Given that the recorded percent positive test rate for Hall County has reached 10%, we have reached the marker we laid out as our target for making adjustments to the mask protocol with worship and gathering indoors. As of this point, masks will be optional for groups gathering indoors.
As always, we will make two different gauges of masks available to those who feel more comfortable wearing them. Those can be found next to the main entrances into the building. As well, some folks may still want to space themselves out in the nave while worshiping. We will keep our current practice with Holy Communion, using the small cups for wine, until we receive further instruction from the bishop. The small groups who meet together may want to have intentional conversations among themselves as to how they feel best to navigate with any ongoing cases in the community, and we encourage that practice of mature Christian community. Also, we are keeping our online worship platform in place on Sunday mornings for those who are unable to join in person. We are very grateful that the cases have decreased, and we are enormously thankful for the faithfulness of this community.
We also find ourselves on the threshold of Lent, with Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras) and Ash Wednesday being next week. We have been through a lot as a community, and I want to encourage us all to consider using this time to reorient and reground ourselves in an intentional practice of prayer. We need the comfort and transformation that comes from sharing in the intentional discipline of worship as the gathered community. Our Newcomer’s Class begins this Sunday, and we will continue our parenting class and Making Meaning class for adults. There are also spaces for youth and children that will continue supporting their spiritual growth. Won’t you consider sharing in these vital practices? Don’t forget that Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras Pancake Supper is next Tuesday as well, in case you haven’t signed up.
Blessings,
Stuart