Dear Friends,
You are no doubt aware of the exciting news from the Centers for Disease Control about changing COVID-19. Yesterday the CDC announced that people who are vaccinated can safely go without face coverings and no longer need to worry about social distancing. This is exciting news!
We are in the process of evaluating how this change will affect Central. Throughout the pandemic, Central has followed the advice of experts and medical professionals. Change is coming, but we need more input from the experts before we can say exactly what that change will be.
One change we can safely make, given the new guidance from the CDC, is to say people who have been vaccinated can safely gather indoors without masks and social distancing. As such, effective this coming Sunday, worship will be mask optional. Please keep in mind that if you are unvaccinated or have certain underlying medical conditions, masks are still recommended. Please consult your healthcare provider about what is safest for you.
Further changes will be announced once we have had time to gather and evaluate input from local experts. Please keep an eye on your email boxes and social media feeds for updates over the next few days. Continuing with current guidelines until we can make informed decisions is one way we can live into our mission to follow Jesus by loving God and loving our neighbors. You, the people of Central, are to be commended for your faithfulness throughout the pandemic. You have ensured that Central is a safe place for worship, fellowship, and service. We are near the end. Please be patient us as we make decisions in the days to come. Most importantly, I ask your prayers for Central that we proceed in a way that honors God and keeps us true to our mission.
Yours in Christ,
Thomas