Resuming in person worship Sunday, June 14th

[Rev. Ellen Ely]

Good evening friends,

 

Finally! We have been making plans, changing plans and adapting more plans! This Sunday morning, June 14^th, we will very cautiously resume in person worship! There will be one service at 10am in our sanctuary. I so appreciate members of the Safety & Security Team and the Board of Trustees for taking lead on this to guide us in these first cautious steps. This evening I want to share some of the initial plans and guidance that we will follow this Sunday morning, in order for us to have a wonderful first Sunday back. We will also be sending more information later in the week. If you are not comfortable returning to sanctuary worship yet, we will be simulcasting the service via the internet.

 

Please know that things will be very different. In the coming weeks and as we get more information that it is safe to do so, we will be relaxing these restrictions and gradually we will find our new normal for worship. In the meantime, please exercise caution and know that we will be thrilled to see you whenever you feel comfortable returning to your church facility.

 

As I alluded to in my email last night, tomorrow night the WOW (Worship on Wednesday) service will be held in the sanctuary at 5:50. All who wish to serve as ushers or greeters this Sunday will need to be present to receive special training after that service.  Bob White and Josh Parker will meet with Greeters/Ushers to review the following:

 

• Primary entry will be via the Narthex. 
• North Entry will be reserved for people with mobility needs.
• East doors will remain locked.
• Halls will be blocked off other than approved seating and overflow areas.
• Seating Locations

o   1^st Sanctuary

• Approx. 120 seats possible
• Reserved rows and seat spacing will be marked
• East and West External Doors will remain closed during seating but should be opened and staffed during services for airflow and security.
• East and West External Doors will remain open during dismissal to allow for alternate exits and less chance of over congregation in the Narthex.

o   2^nd Narthex

• 25 seats possible
• Seat are currently setup as approved by Safety and Security.  No additional Seats should be added.

o  3^rd Conf. Room (Room 103)

• 10 Seats available
• Reserved seat spacing will be marked

o   4^th Room 401

• Approx 25 seats available
• Seat are currently setup as approved by Safety and Security.  No additional Seats should be added.

o   Special Seating for the Chapel

• MASKS ARE REQUIRED
• All rows and all seats available – distancing rules are not required but all attendees must wear a mask at all times.
• All Alternate Seating Locations have Audio and Video of the Services in the Sanctuary
• Ushers/Greeters:
  • MUST attend WOW Service for walk thru of procedures and post service training.
  • MUST wear facemasks
  • Should be prepared to suggest seating areas that fit the number of people per family/group. 

• While we believe that everyone will of course work to help us be efficient and considerate of all other attendees, it may be required that the ushers ask seated parties to relocate to a better sized location.
  • Example:
    • The Parkers (3) are seated in a row for 5, the Hiblers arrive with 4 people and there is room for 3 two rows back, request of the Parkers to relocate to the space for 3 allowing the Hiblers to stay together and not moved to overflow.
• No congregating in the Narthex before or after services.
• Name Tag and Hymnal/Bible Shelves will be covered and not accessible.
• Staff will have removed handouts and other items.
• Children’s Activity bags are not available for handout, so please bring your little one’s something to do if you wish.
• Assisted Hearing Devices CAN be handed out, but must be wiped down with antibacterial wipes before and after use by Staff.

 

Thank you in advance for your assistance and understanding in each of these areas. We really miss everyone and want to get together! Because we care very deeply for the wellbeing of our church family, these initial guidelines will be essential to a smooth gathering and worship experience on Sunday morning.

 

As I said earlier, more details will be forthcoming in a day or two. Please hold all in prayer who have offered to lead or assist in re-launching worship again!

 

Love and blessings

Ellen

 

 

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you..… Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid"  John 14: 27

 

Rev. Ellen Ely

Senior Pastor

First United Methodist Church

1101 Bluebonnet Dr.

Marble Falls, TX 78654

(830) 693-4341 Office

(830) 265-0761 Cell