Update on Regathering Plans
Emmanuel will return to in-person worship on Sunday, May 23 with one service at 9:30am in the main church. As we prepare to regather, we want to share some additional details about what you will encounter when you return to church.
Emmanuel's practice of being open, welcoming, and affirming to all of God's children is unchanged. Everything we do in this next era of gathered worship is rooted and grounded in the love that God has for absolutely everyone. While we will likely be in different pews than we are used to, and some aspects of the liturgy will be reimagined, our doors remain open to all.
Everyone who wants to attend in-person worship will be asked to sign up in advance. While capacity may not be an issue given the size of the nave, we still need to be sure we have contact information for attendees in case an infection is detected following a service. Additionally, having an approximate count ahead of time will help with preparing for Eucharist. For those unable to sign up online, we will have forms available at the door. Sign-ups will launch next week.
Our recent survey indicated that better than 90% of respondents were fully or partially vaccinated. Yay! However, we cannot guarantee that everyone in attendance will be fully vaccinated, so we will continue to follow familiar safety practices:
Face masks that cover nose and mouth will be required at all times
Seating will be limited to designated pews
Only household groups may be seated together
Greeting and passing the peace will be entirely contactless
Even though we know how much Emmanuel folks love music, congregational singing is not possible. With your face mask firmly in place you may hum the hymn tune, but please resist the temptation to sing the words.
Speaking of music, we will have a soloist each Sunday through the summer. If restrictions on singing are lifted we will have a full choir beginning in September.
We will share the Eucharist. Alleluia! The Sacrament will be received in one form only, the bread, and will be distributed in a contactless way. Specific instructions will be printed in the service leaflet and will be reviewed during Welcome & Announcements as well.
We will continue to offer online worship. This option has become an important part of our worship life, and we plan to have online offerings from now on.