2.18.22 COVID Protocols Update
2.18.22 COVID Protocols Update

LEAD PASTOR UPDATE

February 18, 2022

Dear Christ Church Family,

I write to update you today on some coming revisions to our church’s protocols for public gatherings. As of Monday, February 28, we will go fully Mask Optional at all activities of our church and for all ages regardless of vaccination status. The one exception will be in our Early Childhood Ministry where, for the time being, those who serve in the ministry and work in childcare will continue to wear masks. 

We believe that the preponderance of current data supports our planned shift:

  • New cases of COVID in our county are down by 55% over the past two weeks to fewer than 35 per 100,000 people*
  • Hospitalizations have decreased at a similar rate and ICU beds are readily available*
  • COVID-related fatalities are now below one person per 100,000 each day*
  • More than 85% of eligible residents of DuPage County have been vaccinated*
  • Information about COVID risks and available mitigation practices is now ubiquitous
  • Many churches in our region have already implemented Mask Optional gatherings
  • The State of Illinois is relaxing its indoor masking mandates on February 28 as well

In a church as large and diverse as ours, I’m aware that no “policy” will meet with universal approval. Despite all the thought and prayer that goes into decision-making by our Board and Staff, our church’s past practice of requiring masks has been disappointing to many; and, no doubt, the fact that we’re now adjusting in a new direction will be troubling to others. I wish this were not so, as every one of you matters to me and to the life of Christ Church. 

As we go forward, we will fully respect those who choose to wear masks and continue to provide masks at our entrances for those who wish to use them.  Some of our best teachers, musicians, staff and hospitality ministers will continue to exercise this option.  We’re grateful that our facilities are large enough to give you social distancing options.  We will also continue to provide a dependable livestream or Zoom option for many of our ministries.  At the same time, we believe that external conditions have changed enough over the past months to make a Mask Optional policy appropriate at this time. As always, we’ll adjust as needed should circumstances demonstrably change.

February 28 is just two days from Ash Wednesday, the start of our Lenten journey toward Easter. I hope that you will return in person, as possible, to celebrate this season of spiritual renewal with us.  As always, our Family Ministries team is prepared to welcome you and your children. We’ll have refreshment service going full steam.  Whether face-to-face or online, I look forward to sharing this journey ahead with you and pray that Christ Church can be the community where you find God’s lifting power and grace.

With love and gratitude for you,

Dan Meyer
Lead Pastor 

*Source: New York Times Daily Coronavirus Tracker or local health professionals