A.
Choral and congregational singing is suspended. Alan will continue to offer his gift of music. Soloists or a “quarantined choir,” fully removed from the immediate sanctuary is under consideration.
B.
Liturgies will be somewhat abbreviated to avoid long gatherings.
C.
No liturgical processions.
D.
The acolyte ministry is suspended until further notice.
E.
Only the celebrant will occupy the altar area. The sanctuary area will be configured to safely allow the celebrant to occasionally pray and preach without a mask. At all other times, a mask will be worn.
F.
The designated LEM for each service will not vest and will be seated in the congregation. Readings will take place from a separately designated microphone. This will be placed in such a way for the LEM to safely remove their mask during the reading if desired. At all other times a mask must be worn.
G.
The Peace is not part of Morning Prayer and therefore it will not be shared during this time.
H.
Birthday, anniversary and travel blessings are suspended until further notice.
I.
The passing of the collection plate is suspended. A large, marked bowl will be placed in the back of the church for donations and pledges. However, parishioners and visitors are encouraged to electronically make their contributions during this time. The service bulletins will outline the instructions to do so.
J.
Both bread and wine will be consecrated during the Eucharistic Prayer. They will be fully covered while on the altar. However, until further notice, only wafers will serve as the bread and distribution of communion will be of “one kind;” only bread will be administered to the congregation. Keep in mind that it is has been the belief and doctrine of the church since the beginning that communion of “one kind” is full and complete communion.
K.
The decision to participate in communion is a very personal one in these times. The choice to not come forward will be honored and respected. Unfortunately, for the time being, clergy cannot offer the customary blessing which in our tradition often takes its place.
L.
The sharing of the bread will take place at the bottom of the altar stair. Scientists have suggested that this might be the most “at risk” portion of the service, not because of the risk of transmission by transfer of the bread (risk of food borne transmission is thought to be little to none) but because of the close proximity between people. Each quarantine group therefore will go up one by one as guided by the ushers. The celebrant will wear a mask, offer the bread without physical contact and only whisper the words of administration.
M.
For now, the customary greeting by clergy in the back of the church following worship is suspended.
N.
Until further notice, the healing prayer ministry is suspended.
O.
Guest book, name tags and the informational table in the back are all suspended. However, we will make the name tags available in the Parish Office if anyone wishes to pick it up and use it during worship. Parish information usually available on the back table is likewise available in Parish Office.
