Covid Safety for Worship

We recognize that the decision to be vaccinated is a personal one, and we do not “card” anyone to differentiate between the vaccinated and vaccinated.  However, those who are have not received the vaccine must realize that they have a higher ability to catch and spread the virus. 

Please read the warning box that’s above this “tab” box….

The vaccinated shouldn’t judge the unvaccinated.  The unvaccinated should error on the side of caution when it comes to masks and social distancing.

The current CDC and State of NJ guidelines are that masks be worn indoors by everyone (vaccinated or unvaccinated). 

The decision to wear or not wear a mask is left to each individual (we won’t enforce masks), but we request that everyone follow CDC guidelines.  It is suggested that you wear a mask when entering and leaving the building or when meeting with fellow worshipers (these are the times when you will be in closer proximity to other people).  While seated (and distanced), you may remove your mask. 

All of the sanctuary’s seating is available (including the balcony).  Families who live together may sit together (as “normal”), but please keep appropriate distance from others who do not live with you.  It’s suggested that you don’t sit directly in front or behind someone, and that you keep ~1/2 pew length (~10 feet) between parties.

The virus is spread via nasal droplets, and so it is still important to keep a distance between others.  Remember that it is possible that you or the person closest to you may not be vaccinated.  Protect them and yourself by staying at least 6 feet apart.

There is some possibility of passing the virus through surface contact.  In order to provide maximum safety, we currently do not hand out any printed materials (such as bulletins).  But, the Hymnals and Bibles have been returned to the pew racks!

This website provides an “online bulletin” which gives the order of worship along with links to scripture and music lyrics.  It is updated each Sunday. Consider bookmarking the website’s  online bulletin into your phone before arriving, and then using it during the service to prayerfully engage with the service.    Signs with QR codes linking to this page are posted in the narthex.  Online Bulletin  

Yes, we can sing now! (or maybe more accurately, we MAY sing now…). 

But… please keep in mind that the nasal droplets which might be carrying the virus travel much further when singing or speaking loudly.  The 6 feet social distancing guideline must be extended when singing. 

If you’re “near” someone who doesn’t live with you (or who might be unvaccinated), please take precautions (wear a mask, or extend your distancing, or don’t sing as loudly as you might want…).

We are not “passing the plate” (since the virus is sometimes transmitted by surface contact and since there is risk of distancing being compromised).  Instead, offering plates are placed on a table in the aisle. 

There will be a time during the service when you can leave your seat to place your offering into the plate (maintain social distancing… maybe even put your mask back on).  Or, you can place your offering in the plate before or after the service. 

Or… we also offer online giving.  Find out more by clicking this button:    Online Giving

“Normally,” we serve communion at the altar rail, and the elements of bread and juice are arranged on the altar tables before the service.

But in this “abnormal” situation, communion will be taken in the pews using prepackaged “communion kits”  This will ensure social distancing and reduce the chance of passing the virus.  Instead of consuming elements prepared by our worship team, each person will be handed an individual “communion kit” when you enter the sanctuary.  This “kit” is contained in a zip lock bag.   It consists of a sealed container of juice (about the size and shape of a restaurant coffee creamer), and a wafer which is sealed by an outer layer of cellophane along the top of the juice container. 

We generally celebrate communion on the first Sunday of each month.

If you feel the need to give someone a big hug, go for it.  However, we still recommend “fist bumps” instead. 

Normally, we are treated to goodies in the Narthex after the service.  Sometimes the coffee and donuts, (or cookies, or other snacks) are fundraisers, sometimes they’re strictly for fellowship. 

But in these “abnormal times”- these times of fellowship are currently on hold.  Someday soon the coffee and donuts will return, but for now we ask that you simply exit the building at the end of the service (and maintain “social distancing” until you reach your car).