Dear Clergy, Parish Council, Staff, Ministry Leaders, Committee Chairs, and Parishioners:
Please read the following carefully.
Over the past eight months, our parish has navigated the many challenges and opportunities that have arisen due to the rise of the Corona Virus with grace. I am incredibly thankful and proud of the work of our Clergy, Parish Council, Staff, Ministry Leaders, and Committee Chairs. The leadership and members of this parish have all stepped up to address the needs of our community in a thoughtful, professional, and most importantly Christian manner.
In the weeks and months ahead I believe we will continue to do the same. As we have all learned circumstances change and new challenges arise. However, if we continue to place our faith in Jesus Christ first and attempt to apply what He taught us to whatever we face then our community will grow stronger.
Below you find some important updates regarding where things stand vis-a-vis the most recent information we have received from the Governor's Corona Virus task force and our local health department. As you know things are in constant flux and we will attempt to do our best in addressing these changes as they arise.
Updates:
First, it is possible that Larimer County will move their Corona Virus threat level up to Red, when this occurs the church will be limited to a total of 50 people for worship.
Unfortunately, if this is the case, to accommodate as many parishioners as possible we will need to make changes to ensure our compliance with the new threat level. Please remember that our Metropolitan has directed the parishes under Him to follow all directions from local health officials.
In anticipation of this, we will on Friday open only the next 2 services with a cap of 50 parishioners. If the number is not restricted it is easier for us to open more slots as opposed to removing people.
As far as this weekend goes, we still have 100 people signed up. We will have to determine the next steps if we get an order in effect prior to this weekend, with regard to lowering the number of attendees.
In terms of adjustments, if the threat level increases, we will limit the number of people in the altar to three, go back to just one chanter, and pause the use of a choir for now. This will allow us to offer the majority of spots to parishioners.
Below please find some additional notes as we move forward:
Ministry Gatherings - It is absolutely necessary that ALL participants gathering for ALL ministry meetings, events, etc. are wearing their facial coverings and physical distancing, no exceptions :)
Staff - All staff, unless in their offices, or working alone, should have a facial covering on while working inside or with other members of our community.
Visitors - must comply with all recommended health measures.
Relationship Project - we need to be extra cautious that facial coverings are being worn, and proper physical distancing between families is being observed.
Chanters and Choir - Facial coverings should be worn at all times, over the nose and mouth. When a chanter is done chanting, before leaving the stand, they need to replace their mask.
Communion Cloth - a reminder to the community (and altar servers) for those receiving to not touch, or wipe mouths on the cloths.
Reminder to the Community and Staff - if you have been exposed, possibly exposed, or not feeling well, PLEASE stay home and refrain from participating in any church activities until you are well.
Finally,if you are using the facility please make sure you coordinate usage with our Facilities Manager, Grace Walts.
Forsafetyreasons,if you are going into the church alone, please let someone know you will be there, entering if possible during daylight hours.
10. Please use the entrance at the west breezeway door as it is the safest and most visible.
11. Finally, please leave the space you use in better condition than you found it and always make sure the doors are securely locked and closed all the way when you leave.
We appreciate your understanding and patience as we adapt to the ever-changing requirements to keep our church open and to keep you all safe.
In Christ,
Fr. Evan Armatas - Presbyter
Maria K. Tschetter - Parish Council President
