From Rev. Roger Bertschausen, Interim Lead Minister
ROGER’S RECOMBOBULATION AREA:
COVID Protocol Changes | 09.13.22
With the recommendation of WBUUC’s medical advisory team, we are making changes to our COVID protocol beginning on Sunday, September 18. Please review these changes so you can make decisions that feel right for you.
While masks remain strongly encouraged for all individuals regardless of vaccination status, current metrics and declining demand on our medical system have empowered us to formally lift the mask mandate for all church activities including worship services and religious education classes. The mask mandate will remain in place for those who are unvaccinated, including children three and up. Nursery staff will be masked.
The removal of the mask mandate applies to vocal and wind instrument musicians who are vaccinated during worship services. We will also be removing the booth behind which our hymn leaders sing. We have already lifted the restriction on the number of vocal singers. Given the length of potential exposure, masks will remain required during vocal music rehearsals other than the choir director who may be unmasked.
Vaccinated individuals may of course opt to wear masks, and we will continue to provide disposable masks at the entry door. Anyone with COVID symptoms or exposure is asked to stay home or wear a mask, and those with COVID should stay home. We are committed to continue providing a high-quality virtual option for worship services and much of our other programming.
As previously shared, this is a constantly changing situation that is regularly re-evaluated for the most up-to-date recommendations to assure the safety of all. Should a regression to required masking occur, please know our long term goal is for the safety and comfort of our congregation to gather together with as little risk as appropriate.
As always, I welcome your feedback and concerns.