REVISED COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR ST. ALBAN’S (April 3, 2022)

Dear Friends,

I am happy to report that due to the  decline in COVID transmission rates in our area, we are now able to update our health and safety protocols at St. Alban’s.   The following changes will be implemented immediately:

1)   MASKING IS NO LONGER REQUIRED at worship services and any other gatherings at church.  Individuals may decide for themselves if they wish to continue to mask for health or other reasons.  This is a matter of personal choice, and we will respect one another’s practice.

2)  SINGING WILL BE RESTORED TO OUR WORSHIP and hymns will include most or all of the verses.

3)  SPACING BETWEEN PEWS will be kept until Easter Day (April 17th).  After that date, we will not mark off pews but will encourage worshipers to maintain a reasonable distance from others.  Those who wish to maintain a greater distance may sit in the foyer; folding chairs will be available upon request.

4)  ADMINISTRATION OF HOLY COMMUNION will continue as we have done since the pandemic began, using individual cups for the consecrated Wine.  Although our Bishop has written that “congregations are strongly encouraged to return to the fullness of our church’s sacramental life and practice without restrictions, including reintroducing the common cup at Eucharist”, we will maintain the current practice for the time being as we consider when and how we can safely restore our historic Anglican practice.  (Please note that intinction is not hygienic and is not an option).

5)  THE ORDER OF WORSHIP FOR USE AT HOME and online weekly sermon will continue to be provided for those who cannot attend in person.

6)  IN-PERSON MEETINGS AND EVENTS will be restored gradually, based on best health guidelines.

Please note that although COVID has diminished, it is endemic and we must remain careful as it evolves.  Our desire is to provide a safe environment for everyone as we move forward.  Maintaining  good basic hygiene practices and caring for one another as the Body of Christ will help us all. 

Thank you for your cooperation and faithful support of our church!

On behalf of the Vestry of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church,

Rev. John Peters, Rector