Presbytery Guidance on Church Activities During Omicron Surge

January 7, 2022

Once more, COVID is putting at risk the activities we, as the church, were just beginning to enjoy again. As I have shared before, I am not a bishop and am not at liberty to make a pronouncement of a requirement that must be followed by our churches. Below is guidance for you to consider when developing or modifying your church's approach to keeping your community safe.

Public health experts continue to recommend receiving the vaccine and the booster, wearing a mask when in public places, practicing safe social distancing, and sanitizing one’s hands and workspaces frequently.

In addition, I share how three congregations recently have modified their worship practices as a result of the omicron variant surge. Feel free to adopt their language in whole or part.

• Salisbury Church, Midlothian
• First Church, Richmond
• Grace Covenant Church, Overland Park, Kansas

Friends in the Presbytery of the James, I pray for the time when these limitations will be able to be lifted. Until then, we must remain vigilant in protecting our young and those whose health condition makes them more at risk.

Please make good decisions, individually and corporately. Be safe. Stay healthy. And may God bless our Sessions and our congregations as immediate adjustments must be made.

In Christ’s Service,

Fred A. Holbrook
Interim General Presbyter and Stated Clerk

 

Find the CDC community transmission level for your area.