Today is the day that the state-wide mandate for face coverings goes into effect. I did get a few questions on this, so here goes:
Does this mean we are required to wear facemasks at church? Yes. The mandate does specifically state that anyplace indoors, including places of worship, are required to have face coverings. No matter what our opinions are about it, this is what the mandate is right now. I don't have any extras to hand out this week, but will have some available next week.
What about those on the platform? The mandate does give some freedom to those up front, singing, playing instruments and speaking. We have enough space there, so those on the platform don't need to wear them while up there.
Can I take them off while seated? I have read that over again and it appears like the only time you may take them off indoors is if you are eating and drinking and maintaining 6 feet of distance between others outside your party. So it would appear that this little detail has been either omitted or changed for this order. But we have our rows 6 feet apart, use your best judgment on that.
What about kids? The mandate states anyone 5 years old or older.
Exceptions? Health conditions that make it difficult for you to wear a mask do make you exempt. There is no list of ailments to go with, so that is open to interpretation.
So that's what I know about this. I have read the order and that's how I understand it. Pastors in this climate need to be a lawyer also I guess.
Seriously, though, I know this is a frustrating issue for many of you. The order is what it is and I can't do anything about that. I am hopeful that this doesn't just carry on for months, but who knows. We need to be graceful toward each other no matter what.
Thanks for understanding and doing your best to comply. Like I said yesterday, we won't turn you away if you come without a mask on. The goal here, of course, is to not see things get bad again where the state pulls things back. I don't want to see things dialed back again for everyone's sake. Keeping praying....
Just another chapter for my "Pastoring in a Panedmic" book I guess.....
Have a great day!
Pastor Derek