We are excited to announce that COVID-19 metrics from the CDC indicate that we are able to resume in-person worship. As long as the metrics remain favorable, our first Sunday of in-person worship will be June 6. Our greatest concern as we gather together again is that we do so safely; please reference the safety protocols listed below for more information. In order to accommodate as many people as possible, we will have two services: one at 8:30 a.m. and one at 11:00 a.m.
Everyone will be required to register for each service either online or by phone, with registration opening on Tuesday, June 1. Information on registration is forthcoming; look for communication from the church next week via email and check our website and social media for updates. While a limited mailer will be sent to those who prefer physical communications, we encourage you to reach out to friends who may need assistance in registration. You will be able to register for multiple people if needed.
We recognize that returning to in-person worship is a decision that is guided by our personal understanding, comfort, and prayer. We know we all are at a different place: many of us are ready for in-person worship; many have been ready for months; many are longing to return but not ready to gather; many are vaccinated; and many are not. We know rebuilding our connections and forging a new path together will take time. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Westminster, and we’ll keep you informed of any updates that may arise.
Safety Protocols
All protocols are subject to change, depending on ongoing CDC metrics.
- All worshipers must wear a mask for the duration of their time in the church building.
- Each service will be limited to seventy-five people to maintain at least six feet of distance between individuals and groups in the church pews.
- The sanctuary will be disinfected before every service.
- We expect all worshipers to pass a temperature check and health screening, and maintain adequate physical distance while in the church building.
- We will not gather inside after the church service.
- Communion elements will be prepackaged and available before entering the sanctuary.
Children's Worship
During our 11:00 a.m. service, Summer Children’s Worship is all ready for children ages three through those going into fourth grade,, and the nursery will be available for babies through two-year-olds. Attendants and teachers will be masked and vaccinated. We are very eager to share Christ’s love in person again! Each Sunday, indicate on your online registration what children will be attending which program so we can be prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
We want to be able to welcome everyone to worship regardless of health status and belief—whether you’ve been vaccinated or not, whether you have a health condition or not, whether you are concerned about COVID-19 or not. At the current time, the easiest way for us to do this is for everyone to wear masks so no one is singled out.
Will we be able to sing and respond verbally during the service?
Yes! Worshipers will be able to sing hymns and offer congregational responses and prayers, provided they continue to wear a mask.
Will we still be livestreaming worship services?
Yes! We will continue to livestream in-person worship services even after we are fully open—because everyone is welcome to join worship, whether in-person or online.
When can I register to come to worship?
Registration for worship on June 6 will open on Tuesday, June 1. Keep an eye out for forthcoming communications regarding how to register and a link for registration.
Who should I contact with questions?
Please contact the church office at 616-456-1456 with any questions.