Dear California Church Family!
As per the CDC and Pennsylvania state guidelines, California Evangelical Congregational Church, beginning Sunday, June 13, will be “back to normal” as we gather for worship and other activities! This means we will no longer ask or recommend masks at any time. The ropes will also be taken down between the pews opening all rows to be available for sitting during worship. We will continue healthy and safe cleaning practices as we have always done here at our facility, but we are letting you make choices that are best for you and your family as you worship with us!
We recognize that vaccinations, mask-wearing, even social distancing are individual choices and individuals have the freedom to make those choices as to what is best for their health. We hope that by loosening the “restrictions” that have been in place for over 16+ months the decision to return to normalcy will be easier.
Unvaccinated individuals (including children and youth) are encouraged to follow guidelines for masking to protect their health and the health of those around them. We recognize that some are still in the process of getting their vaccine or are awaiting a time when they feel ready. For those who are unsure about the vaccination, we encourage you to have a conversation with your primary care physician to determine the best decision for you concerning the COVID-19 vaccine. Whatever your decision – we support you and want to help as you worship with your church family!
This has been a challenging time for us all – to say the least – and we know that you and your family have overcome incredible challenges, sacrifices, and continued financial hardships due to the effects of this global pandemic. As Bishop Hill said in his Episcopal Address at EC National Conference just a few weeks ago: “Some of us have said we thought this past year would be a marathon, only to discover it was a triathlon: we had to ride a bike and swim as well. So too, this life of faith, especially this year, requires endurance. The good news is, Hebrews gives us the key to endurance: ‘We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus’ (Hebrews12:2).” Through it all, our goal has been to not just get back to “normal”, but to discover through the challenges all that God has to offer us.
Some come and join us! We would love to see you again, worship beside you, and reconnect! Throughout the summer we’ll be worshipping both in our sanctuary as well as across the street at the grove some Sundays. If there is any way that we can help you, please feel free to contact Pastor David or other leaders in the church with any questions or concerns you may have.
Grace and Peace – Pastor David Mennig
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