In-Person Activities Suspended During Omicron Surge
As you are no doubt aware, the current pandemic situation in our region is very concerning. Over the past month the average case count in Greene County has more than tripled, with the majority of that increase taking place since Christmas. The numbers alone are concerning. What is more troubling is the increasing evidence that with the Omicron variant, vaccination alone is not sufficient to reliably prevent infection.
Earlier this evening the Session of Trinity met via video call, discussed the current situation, and reviewed recommendations from our Health Advisory Team. We have voted to put in place the following protocols to guard the health and well-being of our congregation and broader community:
Effective immediately, all classes, committees, small groups, and leadership meetings will return to online-only gatherings.
Worship will take place solely via livestream broadcast, with only the following individuals present in the worship space:
Those leading in worship
Those directly participating in some element of the service
These measures will remain in place at least through Monday, January 31, 2022. The Health Advisory Team will re-evaluate the situation on or about February 1, and then every two weeks following, until the situation indicates it is less risky to resume in-person activities.
There is some good news. It appears among those who are fully vaccinated and boosted, Omicron-variant infections tend to be more mild than other variants, giving further weight to the vital importance of receiving your vaccine. Additionally, in other nations where Omicron arrived earlier, it appears the wave of infections has tended to subside after 4-8 weeks.
It is my sincere hope that this return to online gatherings and livestream worship will be relatively short; joining you each week for worship in the Sanctuary is one of the great joys of my ministry. Thank you for your continued grace and understanding as we together navigate this challenging season in our common life.
Wishing you Grace and Peace,
Pastor Chris
