Mount Calvary’s Covid-19 Response

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We are all receiving more and varied accounts of the effects of the COVID-19 virus. The news never seems to stop, and we each have our own level of anxiety. The key for us as a faith community is to respond with thoughtfulness, grounded in good, common sense. Your church will be here. If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to Pastor Dave’s e-newsletter. His message this week and for the foreseeable future will be around current events.
 
Mount Calvary wishes to assure you that, as always, the health and safety of our members is our top priority. We are monitoring closely with special concern for our diverse population and close gatherings. Mount Calvary will follow the guidance and recommendations of the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Minnesota Department of Health. We will remain vigilant and are prepared to make decisions based on current needs, as well as in response to changing conditions.
 
For now, worship and all activities at Mount Calvary will proceed. You will notice changes in our routines that are for the safety of all. We are evaluating each event daily and responding to recommendations and modifications of our behaviors. Any closures or cancellations will be made public through email, Facebook, and our web site.
 
We are committed to providing a clean and safe environment and are taking increased precautions throughout our building. You can help by being diligent about washing your hands frequently throughout your day.
 
If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of age or a health problem, and you choose to avoid larger gatherings, remember that our pastors’ sermons are available each week on our website and you can learn about weekly activities by subscribing to our weekly e-newsletter. We will continue to take every precaution during this uncertain time. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.
 
Health-related modifications:

  • If you feel at all sick, please stay home.
  • If you are concerned with larger gatherings, consider our smaller services at 8am or even Saturday at 5pm. Both allow for more space between family groups within the sanctuary.
  • In worship, we will ask the ushers to facilitate the offering without passing the plate. We will also continue to share the peace verbally only, and we will not practice communion.
  • After worship we ask you to wash your hands. We will not be offering coffee, donuts or pastries.

We pray for those currently affected by COVID-19, their caregivers, and all those whose lives are impacted by the ripple effects. Time and again throughout Scripture, God advises us, “Do not be afraid!” We always rely on the bedrock of God’s love and grace while taking wise precautionary measures. God will lead us all through this trying time, and for that, we give God thanks and praise.
 
As this all unfolds, there may be other ways we respond to support our life together. We will keep you posted, especially if your help is needed within the ministry we share as God’s beloved people.