Blessings to all,

Last week, the CDC updated their mask and social distance guidelines. Fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask or to physically distance. As we have all witnessed in the past week, the new guidelines have led to some confusion and a variety of responses from both local and state government. 

As we implement these new guidelines, we also follow the teachings of Christ. Jesus calls us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves, which includes extending grace and patience towards one another. The Bible speaks often about God's acceptance of us and how we should be accepting of others. In Jesus’ life we see the perfect example of accepting others, no matter their sin or choices.

Epworth will begin a gradual reopening and work towards our new normal. We aim to encourage ALL to feel comfortable attending in person. We realize that some people are unable to receive the vaccines at the recommendation of their doctor or choose not to be vaccinated at this time, and we encourage everyone to talk to their doctors about vaccinations. The higher our vaccination rate, the easier it will be to continue to create a welcoming community for all. 

As of this Sunday, May 23:

• Fully vaccinated people will not be required to wear masks or practice social distancing. We still encourage those who feel more comfortable doing so to continue wearing masks. Those not vaccinated must continue to always wear their masks and practice social distancing to ensure the safety of others who have not been vaccinated.
• We will continue to be take temperatures upon arrival to help ensure the safety of the community.
• We will no longer require a sign up for services
• We ask everyone that if you are not well, please participate with our on-line services until you have recovered.

• Communion will continue with the use of the individual cups.

• We also will continue receiving your offering before and after worship in the Narthex. However, we will have boxes instead of offering plates, to help secure your gift.
• At this time, we will not have the passing of the peace in the way we have done so. We are working on a way for all of us to be able to enjoy our fellowship while maintaining some precautions.
• We will begin having Fellowship sometime this summer. 
• Live Stream will be at 9 AM and 11 AM beginning with the first service in June to coincide with the two services.
• The church is open for meetings beginning June 1 and rooms can be scheduled with Debbie. All ministries are encouraged to begin to meet again in whatever form you are most comfortable.
• Our youth are still very vulnerable. Vaccines are just rolling out for many of them. Therefore, anyone in direct contact with our youth are required to wear a mask, even if you are fully vaccinated. All non-vaccinated youth must wear a mask. This is to protect our children.

We have come a long way. For some, these updated guidelines may feel too drastic a change. For others, they may feel too restrictive. As always, we are open to conversation about concerns you may have. We anticipate that some of our gathering again will be awkward as we learn the new practices. Let us keep doing our part to put this pandemic behind us, let’s keep showing love to our vulnerable neighbors, and let’s move ahead with faith and hope.

If there is something that will make you feel more comfortable, please let us know.