COVID-19 Update (December 19, 2020)

While we do not have any legal restrictions in regards to our capacity, in order to maintain social distancing our maximum number for any service is 45 attendees.

We still typically have two Liturgies every week: one weekday Liturgy at 8.00 am, and the normal Sunday Liturgy at 9.00 am.  This may vary depending on special feasts and celebrations. We will also have a daily Vespers and Great Vespers on Saturday night at 6.00 pm. See the calendar for service time.
 

Observe the following:

• In order to attend services you will need to “reserve a spot”.  You can do that online here.
• If you feel sick, have a fever, cough or 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 “check in” by the entrance.
• Please make sure to keep 6 feet from each other at all times (that includes the foyer and the parking lot before and after the service). The exception is of course (out of necessity) when you come up for Communion. Refrain from shaking hands, hugging or kissing anybody.
• Families and couples (same household) should try to stand together. 
• You need to wear a face mask while in church, except while taking Communion. Singers and clergy may be temporarily exempt during the service. Children under 5 are also not required to wear a mask. You are encouraged to bring your own, but we have disposable ones available.
• Sanitize your hands before handling candles.
• 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, if you are venerating (kissing) the icons, you must wipe the glass clean with a sanitizing wipe afterward – or simply bow before them.  Likewise, you will, for the time being, not kiss the cross, the Chalice or the priest’s hand when receiving a blessing.
• High risk or vulnerable parishioners are encouraged to stay home, and contact the priest to hear their Confession and bring them Communion.

Communion in the Liturgy will happen in the following manner:

• Communion will be served 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 provided and immediately put it in the nearby bin.

If you find that services are full and you wish to attend, 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.

If you plan to receive communion, prepare as you should: with prayer, fasting and recent Confession. (If you are an Orthodox visitor, please contact Fr. Andreas before coming up for Holy Communion.)