Dear FPC members and friends,
Before I leave on vacation, I am writing to share with you an important update to our FPC Covid guidelines this summer. As the numbers of Covid cases continue to decline in our area thanks to the wide availability of vaccinations, Session believes we can loosen restrictions while still prioritizing the safety of our most vulnerable members. At the Session meeting on Tuesday evening, we voted on the following changes:
Regarding Worship in the sanctuary: Session voted to eliminate the mask mandate, allowing those who have been vaccinated to not wear a mask and requesting those who are not vaccinated to wear a mask in consideration of those not able to be vaccinated and as recommended by the CDC and the State of NJ. Social distancing will be maintained with the continued blocking of pews. For the time being, we ask that you continue to enter the church through the doors on the playground side of the church and sign-in before entering the sanctuary. As we ease back into in-person gatherings, please be mindful of personal space – how close we get to others – and make sure to ask first about others’ comfort level with personal touch, such as shaking hands.
Regarding church meetings in person: Session voted to allow church groups to meet indoors in person, using the same criteria as noted above for worship. The moderator of each meeting is responsible to be aware of group members uncomfortable attending in person and to arrange for hybrid meetings that also offer remote access via Zoom or other connectivity.
We are so glad to be able to see one another’s smiles again and do look forward to making additional changes as the Covid numbers stay low – like adding fellowship opportunities and celebrating communion together again soon. In the meantime, as we live into the new normal, let us continue loving our neighbors by getting vaccinated, staying mindful of those who are not able to, and taking care to keep each other’s health and safety as a top priority. Remember, we are the Body of Christ and individually members of it. May God richly bless you and yours this summer - and don’t be a stranger!
Blessings and Peace,
Rev. Amy