COVID Protocol and CDC Mask Guidance at St. John’s
On February 25, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed the metrics it uses to assess COVID-19 risk by county across the U.S. Wearing a face mask is becoming increasingly optional as pandemic rules ease across much of the country. Risk will now be assessed based on three factors: 1) new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents in the past seven days; 2) new COVID-19-related hospital admissions; and 3) the percentage of hospital beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Presently, Fairfax County is listed in the low transmission category (COVID-19 by County | CDC).
St. John’s policy has been to follow CDC guidance (Use and Care of Masks | CDC). Although health officials have now indicated it is okay not to wear a mask, even in indoor settings, members of our congregation may choose to mask at any time. Those exhibiting symptoms, or who have tested positive for COVID, or who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 should certainly strongly consider wearing a mask. Pastor Meehan and the Lay Assistants will continue to wear masks during the Distribution of Holy Communion.
Social distancing is no longer be required, but we will continue to ask that you respect the personal space of others. Greet one another with a wave or bow and leave some distance between yourself and other worshippers as the pews allow.
Distribution of Holy Communion will continue as we have been doing this over the past year, from the floor vs. at the altar. This enables people with disabilities to receive the Sacrament along with everyone else, as well as reducing the overall time of distribution. We will not be offering the common cup/chalice at this time but will continue with individual cups only.
Live streaming of worship services will continue each Sunday morning with the 9:30AM service. Thank you to our AV Operators who do a great job each week, enabling online worshipers to join in-person worshipers. Online worshipers can continue to join us either on Facebook Live or YouTube for viewing live services as well as those previously recorded. Click here and scroll down for the worship bulletins.
Wednesday Noon Holy Communion will continue. Please continue to register for Holy Communion so we know how many to plan for each week.
Please note that if circumstances change and the transmission category for COVID is on the rise in our area, we will once again encourage everyone to wear a mask indoors.
The safety and well-being of everyone remains our top priority. If needs dictate any change in protocol, we will certainly make this known to the members and friends of St. John’s as soon as possible.
Feel welcome to contact the Church Office, 703-971-2210, should you have questions or concerns.