We’ve updated our masking policy as of Sunday, May 14. Masks will be optional in most cases. Masks will only be required at the 8:30 a.m. Sunday service if we meet inside due to weather.
Church of the Advocate Masking Policy:
- The 8:30 a.m. Sunday service will be outside, with optional masking. If weather moves us inside, masks will be required (extra masks are in the bell tower).
- The 10:30 a.m. Sunday service will be inside the chapel and on Zoom, with optional masking.
- The presider and Eucharistic servers will wear masks during communion.
- Masks are optional inside the house or chapel (for example, during Sunday formation, Reader’s Roundtable, and contemplative prayer).
This change comes after discussion among the vestry, our most recent survey, and in consultation with Dr. Peter Morris, an Advocate, a career pediatrician, and public health physician certified in preventive medicine.
COVID numbers are very low in Orange County, and we have one of the highest vaccination rates in the state. This does not mean that we’re throwing caution to the wind. Our inside filters will continue to be used on Sundays (these work best with the windows closed). And if you’re not feeling well, or you’ve been exposed to COVID, please stay home and join us by Zoom that day.
And as we’ve all learned from living through a pandemic, things are subject to change. If cases increase, and there’s the need, we will go back to requiring masks.
We also know any change will not impact us all the same. Some will be happy with the shift. For others, this feels like a grief – we are aware of that, and we recognize your pain. Please feel free to talk to Marion or to a vestry member if you feel the need.
Thank you for your gracious spirits and willing hearts to adjust to something new.