Updated Mask Guidelines for St. Thomas Church
You may have heard that the CDC updated their guidance about masks on Friday. The new guidance focuses on the burden Covid-19 is placing on the health care system in the area. Under the new guidance, Muscogee County is at the Medium level. At this level, masking does not need to be required in indoor settings, but people with health conditions that may put them at more risk should talk with their doctor about what they need to do. More info is here.
Throughout this crisis, St. Thomas has tried to do two things. First, love our neighbors - including children who can't be vaccinated, people at higher risk of illness, all who work in or need the health care system. We have tried to do everything in our power to protect others. Second, listen to science. As our bishop has expected, we have followed guidance from the CDC all along.
In light of updated guidance from the CDC, beginning this Sunday, February 27, our vestry has approved the following plan:
- Children and their leaders will continue to wear masks during children's activities.
- Ushers, those serving communion, and others who come into close contact with the whole congregation will continue to wear masks for the protection of children and those among us with health concerns.
- For everyone else, masks are invited but not required. Personally, I will keep wearing one while interacting closely with people indoors until our community gets to the Low level. I will not wear a mask while leading worship or in large spaces.
- At meals and gatherings in small spaces, until our community gets to the Low level, we ask everyone to bring a mask with you and offer to wear it if there are young children or others with health concerns at your table. Love your neighbor!
- Rick and choir members will discuss how to manage masks for rehearsals and worship services.
- We will watch local conditions and adjust our practices as conditions warrant. While we hope this won't happen, there may be times when we need to require masks again.
This plan is in keeping with the feedback we received in last week's survey. The congregation clearly indicated a desire to follow the guidance of the CDC and our bishop.
Feel free to reach out with questions. Thank you again for your faithfulness over the past two years. Join us this Sunday as we pray for a world in great need.
Blessings,
Grace
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