The question of reopening for in-person church activities
Of course I have been thinking a lot about when and how to reopen in-person church activities, including in-person rental activities (such as all the 12-step meetings and other groups that use the facilities). Last Sunday in my after-church Zoom meeting, all nine other people on the call encouraged patience and recommended me to continue online-only participation for at least a week or two. And even then, we need to
be better prepared than we are with appropriate cleaning routines, with PPE on hand, and with protocols that greeters, ushers, and group leaders can follow and support.
Even though businesses are reopening in Arizona, many of our church members and friends are "higher risk" for serious consequences from CoViD-19. Therefore, it is safer for us all to continue to gather virtually.
Part of the problem of how and when to reopen is the tension between scientifically-based health precautions and political opinions. I do NOT want our reopening to be “political.” I want to ensure good health practices as well as good spiritual work throughout the process.
It is uncomfortable to be in this weird "in between" zone, but for this Sunday - Memorial Day weekend - please continue to participate through our livestreaming.
BTW, our livestreaming option is like "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." On Mother's Day the sound was "too quiet." Last Sunday the sound was "too loud." This Sunday, I anticipate it will be "just right!" Thankfully, it is getting better, but it's been a long learning curve. Thank you for your patience and support.
What we need in place before reopening:
1. We need to step up our system of cleaning and disinfecting the buildings. Mike Villeburn is looking into this using our paid cleaning help. We will also need volunteers to help with some cleaning before and after services.
2. We need additional cleaning supplies and personal protection (extra masks, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizer).
3. We need carefully thought-out, site-specific guidelines and protocols for gatherings and clearly-stated written instructions and signs.
4. We need volunteers who are willing to be ushers and greeters at in-person church services in order to provide a safe environment according to whatever guidelines and protocols we put into place.
What about singing? I'd love to hear from you.
We have been providing music for our livestreaming services. However, singing in close proximity is said to increase transmission of CoViD-19 more than just speaking.
So, my question is, when we carefully return to in-person church services, which would be our best practice?
A) Continue congregational singing during church services but only while wearing masks and practicing social distancing?
B) Have music that is primarily for listening-only?
C) Skip the music and just have prayers, readings, and talks?
Please, let me know whatever you think. It's hard to run a church without hearing from a representative group of people. I'm doing the best I can, and I don't want to put any volunteers or visitors in any unsafe positions. I appreciate your help and patience!
