SPIRIT OF HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH WELCOME BACK!
Beginning June 7, 2020 our Services will begin on a limited basis
. Thank you in advance for your cooperation with the following procedures and logistics that are designed to go above and beyond to keep everyone safe and in compliance with CDC/State guidelines while maintaining a reverent and prayerful atmosphere. On – line services will continue and you are asked to only come to Services if you are healthy and comfortable doing so.
Initially, there will be only one service offered and that will be on Sunday at 9:30 a.m.
What you need to know:
·Although we have worked diligently to limit risk and exposure as we reopen our services, there is still risk in attending with others.
·Do not come to Church if there are any signs that you might be sick, or you are taking care of someone who is sick – don’t just assume its allergies or a harmless sniffle! Please act out of an overabundance of caution for the sake of all.
·Masks or other face coverings that cover both your nose and mouth are encouraged for the safety of others while attending Services. Water fountains are shut off, so if you need water, please bring a water bottle.
·Please consider bringing a personal supply of hand sanitizer and/or a disinfecting wipe for your area if possible.
·Be at Church no more than 20 min early as we are trying to limit the time you are exposed to others.
·Don’t be late, as we will not seat anyone once the service begins.
·Greeters at the door will remind you to wear your mask and your tithing envelopes can be dropped off just inside near the baptismal font or by the Hunger Baskets. We will not pass offering plates during the offertory.
·The ushers will be there to help with the Seating. Seating has been carefully measured to ensure that there is at least 6 feet of distance between family groups. The ushers will be there during communion to ensure proper distancing as well.
·At this time there will not be children's services or nursery staff. Children attending will remain with their families.
·There will be no singing for a while except by Jake and Lizzie.
·Quietly and prayerfully recite prayers and responses as to not project your voice and increase droplets in the environment.
·Do not shake hands with others or hold hands during the “Our Father.” We will also be omitting the “sign of peace.”
·Pastor will distribute Communion using gloves and dropping the host into your hand being careful not to touch each person. Wine/juice will be distributed by helpers wearing masks and gloves and the cups will be in the trays placed apart to make it easier to get a portion without touching any other cups.
·At the conclusion of Service, we will dismiss people in a carefully planned manner, section by section, to encourage proper social distancing as we leave as well. Please wait to be dismissed.
·We know you will be glad to see many of your fellow parishioners, but please do not congregate in the narthex but exit the doors and visit outside if you want to or go directly to your cars.
·Be sure to wash your hands, sanitize, etc. as soon as you are able after exiting the Church!
·You are not responsible for enforcing the policies and procedures during the Service. If you have any issues, please report them to your usher or Pastor directly. They will handle it from there.
·Even with all of the planning and preparation, things will not go perfectly. Pray for patience, wisdom, understanding, and forgiveness!