Gatherings + Groups update

There have been significant COVID guidance changes lately. Particularly impactful for us is the lifted mask mandate for fully vaccinated Chicagoans. However, with the virus escalating in places like India and continued vaccine distribution disparities in our own city, it's clear we are still in the middle of a crisis. We must be very careful not to overlook this reality. And as an elder team, it has always been our disposition to "reopen" as wisely as possible, rather than as quickly as possible.

So, while we are greatly encouraged by the progress we see in our country, state, and city we still have a long way to go. All this to say, now is not the right time to make changes to our Sunday gathering practices. Changing capacities and masking has a number of implications for the logistics and safe practices of gatherings which we have only started a month ago. Chicago's leadership anticipates some return to normalcy in July. Therefore we think it's wise to reconsider in August.

However, we do believe one change is in order for our groups who are meeting in person. If everyone in attendance (including children) is vaccinated groups can gathering in person without masks, without restrictions. We have previously shared in-person group guidelines which we've now updated and remain vital for the safety and equity of our church family.

This is hard. But God is with us. He promised he would not leave us and he hasn't. He has given us his Spirit as our Helper. He has given us his Word as a light to our feet. He has given us each other to shoulder the burdens of this season. May we continue to honor and trust him through this season.