A Caring Perspective on how we regather…

Fauntleroy Church is a caring congregation. Caring for ourselves and others is such a part of who we are that it is included in our mission statement! As pandemic restrictions reduce and we begin to worship together again in-person starting July 11th, we will continue to hold a deep caring for each other in all we do, especially for the vulnerable. This past year has been traumatic. Many of us have experienced pandemic losses and are relying on our caring community to take cautious, measured steps as we find our new “normal”. We will do our best to honor that trauma and loss as we reopen our doors to all.

Our vulnerable population includes those of all ages who cannot be vaccinated for whatever reasons. This includes our young children who aren’t old enough for the vaccines. That’s why they will be enjoying Sunday School outside for the summer, reducing their contact to others a bit and allowing them to learn and play without as much worry about distancing. They’ll be wearing masks to care for their friends, too.

Our vulnerable population also includes those who experienced adverse reactions preventing them from completing their vaccinations and those who are vaccinated who have current health conditions that keep them cautious. That’s why we will be wearing masks and distancing when inside the church. We want everyone to feel and know they are welcome to worship in-person, vaccinated or not. By holding hybrid worship services starting July 11th, our pastors and church leaders have prioritized offering the widest caring worship solution for all.

When you think about it, we have many simple ways we can care for each other both physically and emotionally as we gather in-person. We can care for each other by worshiping virtually when we are not feeling well or when we have known or suspected exposure to the virus. We will care for each other by wearing our masks and maintaining social distances while in the church building, following the Pick 2 principle. We can even care for each other by parking farther away when able, saving the closer accessible parking spaces for those who need them. And, if you are one of the people who can’t wait to hug your friends after more than a year apart, you aren’t alone! But, it’s good to remember that not everyone is ready to be that physically close to others yet. Checking comfort levels with friends before offering a hug is another simple caring thing to do.

It is important to care for ourselves, too. While we have been going through this pandemic together, our experiences are all unique. Some will be so excited to be back in the sanctuary that they will be the first in line to check in on July 11th. Others will wait for a while to see how things go or wait until everyone in their home can be vaccinated. Some will be a bit anxious about being around people. And some people, likely many of us, will experience a mix of all these feelings. We encourage you to care for yourself by choosing to return to in-person worship and gatherings at your own pace when you are comfortable. Know that it is okay to change your mind, too.

Bottom line? We are a church that cares for each other. So it’s probably no surprise that caring will be at the heart of everything we do as we open our church doors again.

With peace and compassion,

The Caring Ministry