Church Reopening (Phase 2)

Right now, we typically have to Liturgies every week: Saturday, 9.00 am and Sunday 9.00 am.  This may vary depending on special feasts and celebrations. We will also have weekly Vespers on Saturday night at 6.00 pm.
 

Observe the following:

• We are limited to around 40 people in any service. Therefore, in order to attend you will need to “reserve a spot”.  You can do that online here, or, if you cannot do that, contact me and I will do it for you.
• Before coming to church you should take your temperature. If you are running a fever you may not attend. Also, if you feel sick, cough or have shortness of breath – stay or return home.
• Wash your hands with water and soap or sanitizer prior to the service.
• When arriving at church you will need to “sign in.” You will either be met by someone to help you, or sign in by yourself on a stand by the entrance.
• Please make sure to keep 6 feet from each other at all times (that includes the parking lot before and after the service). The exception is of course (out of necessity) if you come up for Communion. We cannot have any lingering on the premise after the service is over. Refrain from shaking hands, hugging or kissing anybody.
• Families and couples (same household) should try to stand together to make more space for others.
• You will need to wear a face mask while in church, except while taking Communion. This does not apply to singers and servers during the service. Children under 10 are also not required to wear a mask. You are encouraged to bring your own, but we have disposable ones available.
• Do not touch anything if you do not have to. Candles will be handled by a designated person, who will light them for you before the service starts (you will have a chance to indicate how many you want lit, and where). 
• No donation plate will be passed around for the time being, please put your tithes and offerings in the donation box in the back of the church (or donate online)!
• When entering church, you should only bow when venerateing icons (not kiss). Likewise, you will not kiss the cross, the Chalice or the priest’s hand at this point.
• Cover your mouth with tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• High risk or vulnerable parishioners (as defined by health authorities) are encouraged to stay home.

Communion will happen in the following manner:

• Communion will be served at the normal time in the Liturgy for all Orthodox Christians who are properly prepared.
• Do not line up close to one another, keep distance from others when approaching the chalice. Wait until the communicant in front of you leaves before stepping up to the Chalice.
• Do not grab the cloth napkin or wipe your mouth on it. Do not kiss the Chalice. Instead move to the side and wipe your mouth with a paper napkin and immediately put it in the bin to the left.

If you find that services are full, please let me know – as you will be given preference in future services. 

Needless to say, visitors, inquirers and catechumens are also welcome to attend.

Prepare for Communion as you should: with prayer, fasting and recent Confession.