Finally!  After two long years, we are celebrating the return to more ‘normal’ patterns of worship in our congregation!  As of March 1, 2022, we will resume the practice of Holy Communion in the context of worship each Sunday — as well as a return to ‘normal’ orders of worship!

In the light of a recent shift in the COVID-protocol guidelines issued by our state and county health departments, we rejoice that we can get back to ‘normal.  However, we will continue to encourage mask wearing in worship not because we like the way we look in masks, but because some in our community (and particularly our youngest members) cannot — as of yet — be vaccinated.  We will continue to wear masks in worship because we don’t want to require proof of vaccinations and boosters from any and all who might wish to enter our worship space.  We will continue to wear masks because we don’t want to stigmatize those who — by medical condition or personal choice — have elected not to be vaccinated. And we will continue to wear masks  in worship because it is one way in which we can say to one another “I’m going to put you and your well-being and your comfort ahead of my own.”

Additionally:

• The front row of pews in the Sanctuary will be ‘closed’ to seating, so as to ensure significant physical distance between worship leaders and worshipers.
• Our worship leaders will be unmasked. Per State Guidelines, our instrumental musicians, vocalists, readers and preachers may be unmasked, as they are expected to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and are expected to maintain social distance from others while performing.
• The size of our worship teams and choirs will be limited, so as to allow significant physical distance between worship team members.
• Our weekly worship services are also live-streamed via Facebook @HLSCOrinda and posted on the church website for those who do not feel able to return to a community worship setting at this time.

Whether you join us online or in-person, know that we’re glad to have you join us in worship!