Safe Spaces Update 6/6/21

New Safe Space Protocols (starting June 6)

We shared the good news with you last week that beginning on June 6 our safe space protocols are changing.  The biggest change is that those who have been fully vaccinated are no longer expected to wear masks during worship on Sunday morning. 

But we also recognize that children under the age of 12 do not yet have access to a vaccine. And that some are immune-compromised, and some who can’t get the vaccine under the advice of their doctors. We appreciate everyone being diligent as we continue to be respectful of these vulnerable populations.  So, some of us might choose to wear masks to set a good example for the children or be in solidarity or support of these other at-risk groups.

Speaking of children as many are not yet fully vaccinated…Those Staff Persons and volunteers who work with children, in SS, for instance, will continue to wear their masks based upon what parents and leaders decide whose children are involved in that activity. While children will wear a mask indoors in common spaces, masks are optional for outdoor activities.   

What are the changes and what can I expect on Sunday morning?

• Those Fully vaccinated may choose to not wear masks during worship and events. Please though wear a mask in our common spaces like when entering the bldg. hallways and into the sanctuary for worship. Once you are seated and the service has started you may remove the mask if you are vaccinated and if you choose to do so. If you are unvaccinated, we ask that you please keep your mask on for the duration of your time in the building. After the benediction, we ask that everyone wear a mask (vaccinated or not) until they are outside.
• Those Non-vaccinated are still encouraged to wear masks for their own safety and, more importantly, for the protection of those unvaccinated folks in our midst.
• Non-vaccinated children including youth over the age of 4 are encouraged to wear masks.
• Someone who wears a mask… be kind and wear a mask Staff and Pastors will wear masks on Sunday mornings when around others and during large church events to create a safe space for all who choose to wear masks.  Lay leaders are encouraged to do the same.

So If you feel strongly that you should wear your mask vaccinated or not, please wear your mask!  We honor you!  No judgment. 

If you have been vaccinated and feel safe, you are welcomed to participate in worship without one.  We honor you, too!  No judgment. 

If you are not vaccinated and are not sure what to do, I would suggest still wearing your mask We honor you.  No judgment here either.  

I have been vaccinated but will still wear my mask if you are wearing one when I am around you – because, on Sunday mornings, I am around all of you. I would simply invite you to be careful, considerate, and kind with one another, and keep a mask close at hand for those moments when you need to put it on for the safety of others.  

In addition…

• Safe Space is being relaxed The ropes will come down but we will keep every other pew closed for a while and we suggest leaving 3 ft between different family units.
• Remember our Traffic Light ( Red & Yellow,) Please make sure the people you greet feel comfortable with your proximity to them and/or any touching, hugging, or handshaking.
• Masks are optional for outdoor events Masks are not expected for outdoor events – but certainly may be worn by those who so desire.

Once again…

• Masks are encouraged in all common spaces

As far as Adult Sunday schools…other small groups and events… Once you are in your meeting space, your group can decide whether to wear masks or not. Outside events held at the church will abide by these Guidelines. 

Because this is a care covenant that we are asking you to participate in, there has not been and never will be any “mask police.” Since we returned to the sanctuary in person, the guidelines about masks and safe distancing have been part of our shared covenant. We are a community of trust, and we trust that those who attend services will make the right personal choice of whether or not to wear a mask going forward based on their own comfort level.

As we have done, we will trust each other as we live into these new safe space protocols.  The Scriptures remind us that followers of Jesus are obligated to go above and beyond to make certain everyone can feel safe, loved, and welcomed to God’s Table.  Sometimes this means laying aside our own comfort and just wearing masks for the sake of those who are still vulnerable.  At other times, it means laying aside our own judgment as we look suspiciously upon those whom we worry may not have actually been vaccinated.  

We want to not harm as it depends on us and respecting wherever our friends in our Good Shepherd community are. We want to make our sanctuary and church a safe space where everyone can feel comfortable and valued.

See you Sunday, Pastor Jeremy