New Guidelines for Worship

This week the CDC has revised its guidelines for communities in which COVID-19 transmission rates are “substantial” or “high,” which includes Shelby County. Beginning this Sunday, our primary response at Calvary will be to require masking in worship, formation, and fellowship for all people, regardless of vaccination status. You’ll still be welcome to choose your pew, but ushers will assist you in finding a place, so as to avoid overcrowding on any particular pew.

Reception of Communion (for those who so choose), congregational singing, coffee hour, and formation classes can all go on as planned, with the addition of masking, except while consuming sacrament, food, or drink. Our children and youth programs will follow additional guidelines from the Shelby County School System and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

At Calvary, we have had a remarkable advisory committee to guide us throughout this pandemic. It is comprised of four physicians, a Shelby County administrator, a human resources director for Shelby County Schools, vestry leadership, and key Calvary program, facilities, and ministry staff members (listed below). I can’t overstate the value of each committee member’s knowledge, wisdom, and perspective as we’ve sought to interpret the CDC’s guidelines for our context as faithfully as possible. I can also say without hesitation that these people have considered not only our individual and community health, but also our need to worship, to sing, to pray with other people, and to offer Christian hospitality and help to the vulnerable. They have even considered our need for the simple interactions that lead to joy.

Thank you for your continued prayers and understanding throughout this challenging time. And thank you for your part in the miracle of grace that is Calvary Church.

Grace & peace,

Scott Walters,
Rector

Calvary Advisory Committee