June 6, 2021

As of Sunday June 6, Zion’s pandemic guidelines will be changing, in line with new guidance from CDC and the state of Ohio. Although the pandemic is not over yet, we give thanks that vaccines and diligence have greatly reduced the risk for most people. If you haven’t yet been vaccinated, now would be a great time to check out the options for adults and youth, to protect yourself and others.

For worship and other events at Zion, we still ask that you stay home if you’re running a fever, feeling sick (cough, congestion, trouble breathing, fatigue, aches, nausea, etc.), or are not fully vaccinated and have been recently exposed to someone who has tested positive.

Changes to our guidelines and procedures, effective June 6:

• Masks optional, not required. Current recommendations are that adults who are not vaccinated, or have other health risks, continue to wear a mask over nose and mouth, especially when indoors with others, and maintain six feet of distance.
• Sanctuary and balcony seats no longer restricted. You can find a seat where you like, at a distance from others that works for you.
• Many other worship restrictions removed. We will sing more, pass offering plates, share the peace (using the least-hands-win rule), and open up worship roles to more people.
• Additional communion options. Prepackaged communion elements will continue to be available for anyone who wants, but we’ll also offer wafers and individual cups of wine.
• The 10:45 livestream will continue indefinitely.
• Children’s Chat will continue by video through the summer, then return to in-person when Sunday School resumes on Rally Day.

The move to this “next normal” will call for many more people to be involved with each worship service, and we’ll be working to phase back in more readers, communion servers, greeters, meeters, acolytes, ushers, and more. Some who have served in these roles in the past may not be able or ready to return right away. So please prayerfully consider how you can be a part of making worship a great experience for everyone. Mostly we look forward to gathering with you soon, in person, and we thank you for your prayers and support!