Dear Friends:

The Executive Committee [EC] of Church Council met on May 6^th to continue our discussion on how our church should adjust our many ministries to the unfolding of the coronavirus.  Gov. Scott and the Vermont Department of Health continues its slow and steady course of returning to a more open culture in stages.  With the increasing number of people in Vermont being vaccinated, the EC has determined to follow Gov. Scott’s lead and open our worship and facility up more and yet still maintain standard safety protocols.  We will apply the following new rules of engagement on Sunday, May 16^th.

For worship, that means…

• Going from 12 to 25 pews with open seating [every other pew].
• Ushers no longer taking people’s temperatures or asking safety questions.
• No longer requiring the use of sign-up genius to attend church…
  • Just come and show up to get a seat: first come – first serve.
  • We have not filled up yet so hope not to turn anyone away.
  • If forced to turn folks away, the EC will discuss alternatives.
• Everyone will just simply sign in at the narthex for contact tracing].
• Wearing masks and keeping proper distancing will still be required.
• WE WILL SING HYMNS QUIETLY WITH MASKS ON.
• We will welcome instrumental music into worship [no wind instruments].
• Masked singers can perform in small numbers.
• Windows will remain open so bring something warm to wear.
• Fellowship Hour will be outside, weather permitting.
• Communion will be observed outside, weather permitting.
• Smaller weddings and funerals can take place w/ safety protocols.
• Our service will continue to be streamed for those who wish to stay at home.

 For wider church life, that means…

• Committees can meet in person if they wear masks and practice safe distancing.
• Outside groups can begin to use our facility [masks / distancing].
• By May 16^th, both our clergy will be vaccinated plus two…
  • So, they will be glad to make pastoral visits: call 802 878 5745 to arrange.

The EC makes these changes to encourage our members to come back to church but continue to remain vigilant in following effective health protocols.As is always the case, if the outlook changes, we will respond to keep our members and friends safe.Because so many people have connected with our church via worship through our streamed services, we will continue to do so and work to maintain the highest quality on line service possible.

Thank you all for your patience and grace during this ever-changing covid time.Balancing cautious safety for our members with everyone’s desire to be together has been a challenging balancing act.Together may we continue to move forward as future opportunities for ministries present themselves.

We are grateful to be working for you as the Executive Committee. 

Maureen Evans – Christine Sinkewicz – Alison Wermer
Cathy Shearer – Dan Petherbridge – Josh Simon
Mark Mendes