Covid-19 Response Policy Update

Effective August 17, 2021

Due to the Lincoln/Lancaster County Health Department Community Guidance & Recommendations, and the worsening Covid-19 case numbers in Lincoln, the Session—at its August 16th meeting—approved the following changes to our current Covid protocol. These changes will take effect immediately:

New Mask Requirement

• Face masks are required for all in-person gatherings at the church, regardless of vaccination status. This applies to all groups meeting at the church.

• Exceptions to this requirement include children under the age of two, and those with medical conditions that preclude the wearing of a mask.

• Individuals are encouraged to bring their own masks. SHPC will have disposable masks available if needed.

Worship Service, Communion and Congregational Singing

• Assigned seating for contact tracing purposes is not being implemented at this time. Friends can absolutely sit together for worship, but self-social distancing between “bubbles” is encouraged.

• Communion will continue to be served using the current protocol.

• Congregational singing will continue, with masks on.

• Worship leaders will be allowed to remove masks while actively leading worship.

Food & Beverages Suspended

• Other than communion, all food and beverages are suspended for all gatherings, including fellowship time.

• The kitchen and counter will be closed. There will be no coffee or treats, however, individuals may bring their own bottle of water.

The Safety Committee and Session continue to actively evaluate current conditions. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the church office