May 20 Update from Eliana Maxim
Seattle Presbytery
Dear friends,
It seems like almost every week we are provided different directives and guidelines on how to re-engage socially, even as we try to move forward in this COVID time. Recently, the CDC issued a surprising directive on mask wearing for vaccinated individuals. And so many of us have been wondering what this means for our church re-entry plans.
Regardless of the CDC’s statement, King County Public Health issued a new directive today (May 20th) that all individuals – vaccinated or not – should continue to wear masks both indoors and in public spaces. This is more stringent than the federal guideline, primarily due to the current fully vaccinated population in King County (57% rather than the desired 70% rate).
So whether you are vaccinated or not, businesses – including houses of worship – can require you to mask up. It might be tempting for us, as we begin to make plans for in person worship again, to attempt to circumvent this recommendation. But knowing what we have learned about this virus, its many variants, and its devastating impact on our communities (particularly our black, brown, and indigenous siblings), we would be wise and caring to continue a cautious return to church.
There have been other questions raised about vaccines, worshipers, and church employees. The PCUSA’s legal department has developed a FAQ you might find helpful as well.
As always, keep informed through the King County, Kitsap County and Washington state health department pages for any changes in guidelines or policies. And if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
In these times of anticipation and hope, tinged with some fear and uncertainty, may we take comfort in God’s promise that we have already been given everything we need, as well as commit ourselves to together seek the shalom for all communities and one another.
In grace and peace,
Rev. Eliana Maxim
Co-Executive Presbyter