Elder’s Update Regarding Safe Assembly Practices & Guidelines
November 17, 2020
“…for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
2 Timothy 1:5, ESV
Brethren,
It has been several months since our last update regarding safe assembly practices and guidelines which we have implemented as a result of Covid-19. Overall, our congregation has responded remarkably well to the difficult challenges as a result of the ongoing pandemic. In every way you have responded just as we have asked – we are truly grateful.
We are all tired of this pandemic. Events like this, though rare, put strains on every aspect of society. The church is not immune. In fact, because of our practice of frequently coming together for worship, ministry and service, this pandemic has been particularly hard on churches. We remain grateful for those who have worked hard behind the scenes to aide our congregation during this trying period. We are especially grateful to our deacons who have shouldered much of the task of implementing the changes necessary to help our congregation continue to function at this time.
Unfortunately, the pandemic continues to persist. We have emphasized the fluid nature of the situation and how we as a congregation must adapt to the different stages of this pandemic. On Thursday, November 12th we learned the State of Virginia would be reimplementing some of the earlier measures designed to combat the spread of Covid-19. As a result, your elders have met and discussed how we too might adjust as a result of the recent wave of this pandemic. Outlined below are additional measures which will take affect beginning Sunday, November 22nd:
Social Distancing During Services
We will be eliminating some of the seating in the current auditorium configuration to allow greater social distancing during services. We must continue to ask you to only sit with your immediate family. In addition, we will be arranging chairs in the multi-purpose room to allow for additional seating. Services will be live streamed from the auditorium into the multi-purpose room. Deacons will serve communion in the multi-purpose room in a similar manner to what is currently practiced in the auditorium.
The Use of Facial Mask
Currently we have asked you to wear a facial mask while coming in and exiting the building. We would like to request you to wear your mask at all times while in the building. We realize everyone will need to remove their mask for communion. We also realize some people, because of health reasons, are not able to wear a mask. However, proper social distancing when combined with the use of facial mask has proven to reduce the spread of Covid-19 in confined spaces. For this reason, we request all members wear a mask at all times when in the building.
Additional Health and Safety Questions
We will be posting the following questions related to health and safety throughout the building. We request that each member consider these questions and if your response to any one of the questions is YES to please remain home and utilize our streaming services:
· Are you sick or have you been experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, etc.?
· Have you been around someone recently diagnosed with Covid-19?
· Have you recently traveled to a Covid-19 hotspot and have you effectively quarantined upon return?
Moving Forward
Our plan is to resume Bible classes on Sunday morning beginning in January. In addition, we are currently considering other efforts we can safely resume in 2021. We will continue to monitor the state and local authorities as they give updates regarding the pandemic. As always, our door is open. If you would like to discuss your cares or concerns regarding these matters, we request you reach out to us at your convenience.
The Elders
David Crutchfield
Melvin Jones
Rolf McDaniel
Matt Meadows