As we emerge from mask mandates, as more and more people are immunized and as the Gage County and Nebraska seven-day averages for new Covid-19 infections remain very flat, we can responsibly look at what our mitigation efforts might realistically be in the near future. As with anything of this nature, things may change, so please watch for new announcements.

Firstly, for masks, which includes bandanas and gaiters, these are still encouraged, though not required. Even if you are vaccinated, you still may responsibly wear a mask as your common sense or courtesy may dictate. For those who are opposed to masks, you will not be looked down on or penalized in any way for not wearing a mask.

Secondly, for social distancing, during the normal course of worship services, we ask that you maintain as much distance as realistically possible. So, for going up to communion as the opportunity arises, or for entering or exiting the sanctuary, please spread out as you are lined up. The exception is if you are with your family group, you may be as close as you wish. You may spread out in the pews as much as you are able, but there will be no ropes in place.

Thirdly, for communion, we may adopt one of two communion procedures during worship, which we will announce in service.

  • The first option is to have “continuous walking communion,” where, beginning with the front pews and working toward the back, the congregation will proceed forward in a line, being mindful to socially distance where appropriate. You will receive communion from a pastor and/or elder(s) in front, and then, after pausing to receive communion while standing, you will proceed down the aisle to your pew. Please note: you should not feel the need to rush during this process. If you would like to kneel or stand at the communion rail in prayer following communion, you may do so, or you may sit or kneel in your pew for prayer upon returning.
  • The second option is to have traditional communion being mindful to distance at the rail and in line while waiting to proceed forward. You may kneel to receive communion at the rail and then proceed to your pew after each table is dismissed.

For one or both procedures, we may, for the sake of distancing, have one side of the congregation come forward at a time.

Especially as the weather is nicer now, you may feel free to “fellowship” outside before and/or after the service. The basement will still be available. For those listening on the radio/online in the parking lot, please pick up a communion packet before the service, or you may come inside for the communion distribution or to receive communion after the service is over.

The pastor and elders will wear masks during the distribution, and the altar guild will also wear masks as they work with the elements.

You may wish to do “fist bumps” or elbow taps when greeting. The pastor certainly won’t turn down such expressions of friendship, or any expressions of friendship, for that matter! As always, please use proper hand washing and stay at home if you have any symptoms of any illness which may be contagious, to be on the safe side.

These guidelines will be effective no later than Sunday, April 11.