In Person
In person, but not exactly normal.
The elders are thrilled about the opportunity to meet in-person. We understand, however, that this is not simply a return to normalcy as a church; there are still precautions to take and measures to put in place. This will be a joyful Lord’s Day, even if an unusual one.
What you can expect.
If you’ve been out in public recently, you’ve likely grown accustomed to seeing social distancing, masks, and other precautionary measures. Because we love one another, you can expect to see those kinds of things at church this Sunday. To get more specific, here is what this Sunday will look like:
Prior to Arrival
- We ask everyone to make sure that they are not running a fever prior to arrival. Anyone experiencing any symptoms (fever, coughing, shortness of breath, sneezing) must not attend the gathering.
- We encourage those with underlying health conditions, those advanced in age, and those with compromised immune systems to stay home as well. In fact, anyone who would feel more comfortable staying home is welcome to do so. We welcome all who stay home to enjoy the livestream.
Arrival
- We ask that everyone arrive no earlier than 10:30am.
- Everyone will enter through the doors just outside the sanctuary (up the big stairs). If you would like to avoid stairs, a deacon will be able to assist you through the glass doors.
- Deacons will be present to help everyone enter the building in an orderly fashion and get to their seats in the worship hall. They will ensure that no individuals or family units are seated closer than six feet apart. We will have an overflow room prepared, in case we run out of space.
- We are asking, in accordance with government recommendations, that all who attend please wear a mask. We understand that it’s not ideal to wear a mask to church, but we’ll all be in this together. And we are interested in seeing who’s got the best-looking facial gear!
The Service
- Much of the service will look like it usually does: the Word of God will be read, preached, prayed, sung, and displayed.
- There will be two non-congregational songs near the start of the service. We will listen — and perhaps hum along — as our worship pastor, Matt Damico, leads us. The words to those songs will be on the screen for everyone to follow along and make melody in their hearts.
- At the end of the service, we will sing two songs congregationally. We completely understand that some may be uncomfortable with others singing in the room, so there will be an opportunity for people to leave before the singing begins. This will be after the sermon and Lord’s Supper, so anyone who prefers to leave before the singing won’t miss anything else.
- While we are together, we ask that everyone refrain from shaking hands, giving hugs, and other forms of contact.
Dismissal
- After the benediction, the deacons will help with dismissal to avoid a crowded lobby and maintain social distancing.
- We pray for good weather, so we can fellowship with one another outside the building after the service.
Other questions you may have.
Do I have to come?
No. If you would be more comfortable staying home, or if the absence of nursery makes it difficult, we fully understand. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms must stay home. Further, anyone with a compromised immune system, anyone in advanced age, and anyone with other health issues are encouraged to stay home.
Will we take the Lord’s Supper together?
Yes! We will have individual packets — the ones we’ve used for the drive-in services — available when you enter.
What if I don’t have a mask?
We’ll have some available for those who don’t have one.
Do children need to wear a mask?
We understand that it’s not entirely possible for children to wear a mask for any length of time, so we ask that children 10 and older wear one.
Will there still be a livestream?
Yes.
Will bathrooms be available?
We would like to keep bathroom use to a minimum, but they will be available for one-person at a time.
Will there be Sunday School or nursery?
Nursery will be available for children 2 years and younger. We will not offer Sunday School at this time.
Will there be potluck?
Ha! Good one.