On August 9, this upcoming Sunday, our in-person worship gathering will shift from two services to only one service at 10:00am.
However, we will continue to not have Sunday School, Children’s Church, small groups, childcare, or age-related activities until a later date.
This is not a matter of having faith versus fear, over-hyping a virus, or even giving in to the pressure of our government. It is the church joining with our community in helping avoid a health crisis in this country. It is an opportunity to protect the vulnerable (senior adults and people who have chronic medical conditions). We are temporarily changing the way we do things for the sake of our neighbor. Yes, God is more than able remove this health crisis quicker than it came upon us, however in the meantime the church must exhibit Godly wisdom.
From the CDC:
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from
person-to-person.
* Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6
feet).
* Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or
sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or
possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Please consult with your health care provider about additional steps you may be able to take to protect yourself.
Take steps to protect yourself:
Clean your hands often
* Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially
after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or
sneezing.
* If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that
contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them
together until they feel dry.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact
* Avoid close contact with people who are sick
* Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in
your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk
of getting very sick.
Take steps to protect others:
Stay home if you’re sick
* Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
Cover coughs and sneezes
* Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the
inside of your elbow.
* Throw used tissues in the trash.
* Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If
soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand
sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Wear a facemask if you are sick
* If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people
(e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s
office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes
trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and
sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter
your room.
* If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a facemask unless you are caring
for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a facemask). Facemasks
may be in short supply and they should be saved for caregivers.
Clean and disinfect
* Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables,
doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards,
toilets, faucets, and sinks.
* If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to
disinfection.