Church Gathering Policy - Reopening During the Pandemic

As we continue to review the constantly changing details of the COVID-19 pandemic, we will use the plan below as a guideline for in-person gatherings. Our plans are divided into two initial phases, with room for additional adjustments as circumstances change.

The challenge for our church involves holding in tension our desire and need to meet together with our calling to care for our members and neighbors. The policies below will likely seem too strict to some and too loose to others. There are no perfect procedures to deal with the problems we face. But with the grace of God, our church family can face the future with compassion, bravery, and trust in the Lord who is sovereign over all things.

 

Phase 1

 

Phase one of our return process will officially begin on May 31, 2020. Entry into this phase is contingent upon the continued decrease of COVID-19 and influenza-like illnesses in the Mid-Missouri area. Should the number of hospitalizations spike before the May 31,2020 date, we may delay entry into phase one.

Sunday Gatherings

Sunday Gatherings will take place in person weekly with social distancing and strict health protection policies in place. Digital gatherings will continue for those who are in vulnerable populations or those who are uncomfortable with joining in-person at this time. Procedures in place will include, but are not limited to:

  • Strict social distancing. Endeavor to remain six feet from others at all times. No physical greetings such as hugs, handshakes, fist bumps, or elbow bumps.

  • Required face masks for congregants. Disposable masks will be provided for those without their own.

  • Temperature checks at the door. Those at 100.3 or over should stay home.

  • Hand-sanitation upon entry.

  • Ushered seating. Upon entry, each family-unit will be guided to a spot to sit in the auditorium. This will ensure required social distancing.

  • Prepackaged communion supplies. Upon entry, those planning to participate in the Lord’s Supper will have the opportunity to take prepackaged supplies with them to their seat. These will be used later in the service.

  • Supervision of children. Children are to be supervised at all times and should remain with their parents. This is especially true of trips to the bathroom, where proper hygiene should be observed at all times.

VisionKids

No children’s programs will be held during Sunday Gatherings at this time. Content and time considerations will be made with the expectation that children will be with their parents in the regular gathering.

Missional Communities (Small Groups)

Weekly Missional Community meetings will be held digitally. Service and outreach projects will be allowed, but must be conducted with social distancing and good health practices in mind.

 

Phase 2

 

Phase two of the process will begin no earlier than July 5, 2020. Entry into this phase is contingent upon a continued downward trend of COVID-19 and influenza-like illnesses in the Mid-Missouri area. We would like two see at least 2-3 weeks of good reports from nearby county health departments as statewide policies loosen. Upon entering phase two, increased reports could lead us back into phase one, or stricter policies if needed.

Sunday Gatherings

Sunday Gatherings will continue weekly under the same requirements listed in phase one, with modifications. Digital gatherings will continue for those who need them.

  • Face masks will be provided, but are not required.

  • Temperatures will not be taken at the door. Please check your temperature at home before leaving.

  • Seating will still be spread out, but not ushered.

VisionKids

Policies for VisionKids are the same as in phase one.

Missional Communities (Smaill Groups)

Missional Communities will continue to meet digitally, but will begin to discuss the logistics of meeting in person. Because the makeup and location of these groups can vary, time will need to be taken for each group to plan how to meet responsibly in the next phase.

 

Future Phases

 

Plans for a third phase of return will be shaped by the data that emerges in the months ahead. It is possible that as we finish Summer, that strict policies may be able to be loosened.

However, many health experts expect a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the fall. We are hesitant to reduce our diligence in protecting those in our flock while this remains a possibility.

We are currently awaiting Missouri’s increased implementation of Federal recommendations regarding testing, tracing, and surveillance of the virus. Until testing reaches the recommended levels, or until public health data shows that the danger has passed, we will remain in phase two.

If a more robust testing and tracking system is put into place, we will implement a third phase that takes new recommendations into account.