Waconia Moravian COVID Policy

Effective August 22, 2021

We are GRATEFUL:

  • That our Joint Board has been diligent and faithful in their efforts to offer opportunity for worship, while keeping all safe during the pandemic.

  • For the intellectual gifts God has given our scientific and medical community in the creation and distribution of effective vaccines

  • For the patience and grace we have been able to show each other in this difficult and frustrating time

We are CARE-FULL:

⦁ The CDC’s new guidelines as of July 27th, 2021 indicate that “if you are fully vaccinated, to maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.”

⦁ Carver County is designated presently as an area of high transmission by the CDC

⦁ The CDC continues to recommend masks in hospitals, care facilities, on public transportation and for those who are not fully vaccinated

⦁ Children 11 and under are not yet able to receive the vaccine

⦁ Some in our community have not had a chance to be fully vaccinated, are unable to get the vaccine for medical reasons, or have highly compromised immune systems

⦁ Privacy as it relates to whether or not you are vaccinated will be respected and as loving members of the congregation, we will all take into consideration the health and wellness of our fellow church members

Updated Guidelines:

MASKS

⦁ We strongly encourage all members to wear masks, regardless of their vaccination status, due to the current CDC guidelines. This will help us to protect people who have compromised immune systems and children under 12 who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated, and in support of those who are unvaccinated.

WORSHIP

⦁ We will wear masks for worship and singing.

⦁ Physical distancing is recommended between households

⦁ Communion will be served by the pastor (gloved and masked).

⦁ Fellowship will be put on hold at present.

⦁ The basement TV will be steaming the service for any person or family unable to comfortably social distance in the sanctuary.

⦁ Choir will be on hold for the Fall.

⦁ Special Music and videos are encouraged and appreciated.

WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS

⦁ Will resume at the comfort level of the families participating

⦁ Refreshments will be able to be served at the comfort level of the family

ON-GOING CARE FOR THE COMMUNITY

⦁ We continue to encourage:

⦁ Those who are sick to stay home

⦁ Cover coughs and sneezes

⦁ Practice good hand hygiene – wash with soap and/or sanitize

regularly.

FALL SUNDAY SCHOOL

⦁ Sunday School will begin on September 12 via ZOOM for children. Adult Sunday School will be in person (masked) in the Bertha Luke Room.

⦁ We will review this practice and seek input from church members to determine how we proceed going forward.