COVID-19 Update - March 26, 2022

Since mid-March of 2020 the COVID-19 virus has had a painful impact on the life of our congregation, individually and corporately. We have all grown weary of this awful virus that seems to rear its ugly head yet again, just when we think we are almost getting back to some semblance of the normal we remember.

Throughout this ordeal, our Session has consistently affirmed a policy of safety first, listening to the scientists and doctors for guidance, and seeking to treat each other with respect and rise above the rancor and division that marks too much of our country.

We have maintained the view that if we are to err, let us err on the side of caution and safety. We do this not because we are afraid, but because we know there are several within our congregation who are especially vulnerable to the suffering, heartache and even death that COVID-19 can bring. In short, we approach the idea of caution and safety as an act of love. 

Since May of 2021, we have been able to once again worship in person to the delight and joy of all involved. At the same time, we have continued to offer the experience of worship through our “Zoom service” to those who, for a variety of reasons, cannot join us in person.

As the summer unfolded, with the growing number of people being fully vaccinated and “boosted” we were able to relax the wearing of masks and social distancing which were necessary in May.

When the omicron variant exploded throughout our community, state, and country in January, our Session voted unanimously to require masks when we gathered to worship. Our Session’s commitment has always been to be both responsible and flexible to adapt to the changes that have marked the COVID-19 pandemic and to follow the scientific guidance of the medical experts. 

With this commitment in mind, our Session has updated our policy on wearing masks in worship effective March 26, 2022. Based upon CDC guidelines, with the present incidence of COVID-19 low in Manatee County, masks are now optional in worship. If you are immune-compromised or unvaccinated masks are still recommended. We will continue to provide masks if someone prefers to wear one.

Masks are now optional in our Thrift Store.  Our Thrift Store is open from 12noon to 3pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and 11am to 2 pm on Saturdays.

Your Session and Pastor

03.26.22