St. Mary of the Hills
Episcopal Church
                                       
Post Office Box 14
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
828.295.7323
                                                     



May 24, 2020


Dear Friends in Christ,
 
The COVID-19 pandemic, unlike anything since the 1918 flu pandemic, has shocked the world in which we live and altered the rhythms and patterns that shape our common life.  For more than two months now, since March 15 th , our congregation has been gathering in online spaces for worship, fellowship, and study together.  We have learned new ways of using technology, new appreciation for the ways we can be present to one another even from a distance, and new depths to the richness of God’s grace.  
 
In recent days, as the State of North Carolina entered into a second phase of its re-opening plan, Bishop McLoughlin has issued new directives and guidance to the Diocese of Western North Carolina.  These directives offer a theological framework for this season, questions for leadership to consider in planning, and important guidelines for parishes to enact before re-opening doors to public worship and gathering.  Along with our Vestry, the Wardens and I have spent a great amount of time in discernment about our way forward at St. Mary of the Hills.  
 
Following much prayerful reflection, and the guidelines from the Diocese of Western North Carolina, here are some details about our next steps as a parish:
 
  • Sunday morning worship will continue to be offered online only, at least until North Carolina enters Phase III of its re-opening plan.  No public worship will be offered in-person at St. Mary of the Hills on Sunday mornings at this time.

  • All other events and activities, including use of the building by non-parish groups, continue to be suspended until further notice.
 
  • The Pastoral Offices of the Church, including weddings and funerals, may be offered inside the church with no more than ten persons present and with appropriate safety measures in place.  A detailed set of guidelines for these liturgies is available.

  • Any person on the parish grounds or entering the building must wear a mask, must keep at least six feet of distance from anyone not in their household, and must make regular use of handwashing/hand sanitizer.

  • Our parish staff are in the office during the week; however, parishioners needing to complete essential business should contact a staff member before coming to the parish so that we can ensure appropriate distancing and safety measures are possible.

  • The building will remain closed at all times so that we can monitor and keep record of who is entering the building.  If you have a key to the building, we ask that you refrain from entering the building outside regular office hours.  Should there be an outbreak of the virus within the parish, knowledge of contacts will be essential.  

  • Finally, in the weeks ahead, we may begin to explore the possibility of outdoor worship services and other small group gatherings, as they become possible with necessary measures for safety.  More information will be available in the days and weeks to come.
 
The principles that have guided this decision-making are:
 
  • To continue to build up the Body of Christ in unity and solidarity, and to refrain from that which fractures or creates divisions in the Body of Christ.

  • To respect the dignity and promote the health and well-being of every human being.

  • To offer resources and create channels that nurture the life of the faithful in a season of exile.

  • To listen to and trust the science as we seek to respond to this pandemic.
 
I recognize that our continued need to distance from one another as a parish is not easy and will come with a renewed sense of grief for the absence of our community.  To continue in this period of distancing is, I believe, the greatest act of love we can offer each other in this uncharted season of our common life. 
 
These practices will continue to be updated as new information becomes available and new guidelines are developed by the Diocese of Western North Carolina.  If you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to me directly ([email protected]).  
 
As we approach the Day of Pentecost, remembering Jesus’ promised gift of the Holy Spirit, our Advocate and Comforter, may we know that, even though we are dispersed among many places, the bonds of our affection are being strengthened through our common prayer.
 
Faithfully,


The Reverend Andrew J. Hege
Rector