Rector’s Update: New guidance on the wearing of masks
Dear Restoration,
Yesterday afternoon the CDC issued new recommendations for mask wearing based primarily on the rate of hospitalization in the community. As reported in this Washington Post article, “CDC recommends mask-wearing for indoor public settings, including schools, only in communities with high levels of disease.” Arlington County is classified as a community with a low level of disease.
Therefore the vestry is making these changes to our Covid guidance for this Sunday, February 27, 2022:
1. The 9:00 service will stay the same on February 27. Because this CDC classification has just emerged and households are in the midst of processing how they will respond, we are making no changes to our current 9am guidance. Masks are still required for all persons aged 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status. We want the 9am this week to provide the same experience that people have had since September 2021.
2. The 11:00 service will change. At the 11am, we are removing our previous guidance regarding masks and you are free to make your own decision about wearing one. This applies to all ages, including children who are participating in Kids’ Small Groups.
The CDC guidance for those in an area of low level of disease says: “People may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.”
The vestry will evaluate and make a decision about forthcoming worship gatherings after this weekend.
As I said in my sermon last week, we are at the end of a pandemic and the start of a war. We do not know what tomorrow will bring. (James 4.14) However, if the Lord wills, tomorrow, we will gather for worship and after both services we will pray for the conflict in Ukraine at the front of the sanctuary. All are invited.
Praying with you about all these things.
-David
