Hello Covey Hill Church Family,
I am glad to write to you about a long-awaited announcement. We have a chance to gather as a church next week! We plan to have an hour-long outdoor church service on Sundays throughout the rest of the month of May, starting on May 17th. Here are the details:
When: May 17th, 2020 @ 11:00AM-12:00PM
Who: Everyone who feels comfortable coming.
Where: Using the pavilion and surrounding parking lot.
How will we meet differently due to coronavirus concerns: We encourage practicing social distancing (6 feet apart for people not of the same household, refrain from handshakes and hugs, etc), and require wearing masks. We are conducting the entire service outdoors for fresh air and minimal exposure. The church building is closed, except for the foyer so that the restrooms are available.
What To Bring:
· Camp/lawn chairs. The picnic tables will be available on a “first come, first served” basis. So we ask everyone to bring your own seating in case these fill up. We encourage people to sit six or more feet apart (other than people in the same household)..
· Weather-correct clothing: We are not chopping firewood; we are sitting still, and it is May in Michigan. Dress for warmth!
· Bible: (surprised?)
· Masks: Please bring and wear a mask (unless you are sitting in your car). This will be a temporary inconvenience, but for now it is a way to keep our exposure at church to a minimum, and to make the most people able to come comfortably to the service. We wear these out of love (not fear) for those in our church most vulnerable to the disease.
Additional Note: The church building will be closed, other than the main bathrooms in the foyer.
I look forward to worshipping with you all. May the Lord prepare our hearts to call on his name, and rejoice that our Redeemer lives.
In his grace,
Pastor Dan Wilson
P.S. If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment, or email Pastor Dan on our contacts page.
ADDENDUM ON LEGALITY: According to the executive order 2020-77, at time of posting this blog article, the exemptions concerning churches are worded accordingly on the FAQ page:
"Q: Does Executive Order 2020-77 prohibit persons from engaging in outdoor activities that are protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution?
A: No. Persons may engage in expressive activities protected by the First Amendment within the State of Michigan, but must adhere to social distancing measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including remaining at least six feet from people from outside the person’s household.
Q: Does traveling to and attending a religious service in a parking lot of a place of religious worship with congregants remaining in their own vehicles constitute an activity subject to penalty under section 20 of the order?
A: No.