COVID Update: Relaxed Gathering Guidelines Starting Memorial Day Weekend

05.24.21 | Articles Coronavirus COVID-19 COVID-19 Updates by Kevin Baker

Montgomery County has lifted most of the gathering guidelines we have had in place since the beginning of the pandemic. As of 6AM on Friday May 28, we are now under the state of Maryland Guidelines for our gatherings. We will continue to broadcast worship online at both 9AM and 11AM at live.oakdale.church. There are several important changes that will start on Sunday May 30 at our 9AM in-person service and are explained in the video and text below:

WHAT TO EXPECT

 

  • We are following the CDC and statewide indoor masking guidelines:
    • If you are fully vaccinated, masks are optional.
    • If you are not vaccinated, masks are required indoors.
  • Social distancing will no longer be in effect outdoors.
  • Each weekend, weather permitting, we plan to have coffee and water outside to create a space for fellowship.
  • Capacity limits and spacing have been lifted in the Sanctuary.
  • Masks will be required for everyone in Brigham Hall for those who feel more comfortable worshiping in an environment where everyone is masked.
  • Children's Ministry still requires advance registration , Pre-school at 10:30 AM, Elementary at 11:15 AM.

WHAT OAKDALE IS DOING

  • All Volunteers sign and attest to the CDC health guidelines (confirming they are not sick, have not been exposed to anyone with COVID, etc.) and temperatures taken.
  • All contact surfaces and bathrooms are sanitized before and after services.
  • Hand sanitizer stations are in the lobby and outside bathrooms.
  • “Touchless” experience is still in place with no bulletins, offering basket or communion plates, doors are propped open.
  • If you are not vaccinated or prefer wearing a mask, we will have masks available if you need one.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

  • Do not attend if you are sick, have a fever or have been exposed to anyone within 14 days who might have COVID (have an outstanding COVID test or have been diagnosed).
  • If not vaccinated, masks are required when in the building.
  • Please help us protect our church community’s well-being by notifying Leslie Myers, Executive Pastor, , if you or a family member test positive for Covid19 after recently attending an Oakdale Church worship service or gathering