We, the elders, would like to update you on our most recent decision regarding mask-wearing at Sunday morning church service. It has been about six months since we requested that people wear masks on Sunday morning. As a result, we have been gratified to see that decision has led several individuals and families to feel comfortable enough to return to worship services.
However, nobody likes to wear a mask, and, because of several factors, we now believe it is time to move toward lifting our mask request. These factors include the significantly reduced number of Covid cases in Lycoming County and the increasing number of vaccinated individuals.
Please understand these decisions are extremely difficult. We serve many believers with diverse convictions, and it is our goal to make the best decisions for every one of you, and even desire to please everyone in the church body, whenever possible. As such, we ask for grace from you as we work through this challenging situation and are always interested in hearing your thoughts and opinions on this, and any, matter.
Our decision is to lift the mask request beginning Sunday, May 30. We believe this is the earliest date which best accommodates the church body at large for two reasons: 1) this is the first Sunday after which all Pennsylvania adults will have had the opportunity to be fully vaccinated and 2) practically all schools will be finished or approaching their final week by this date.
While we certainly expect an increase in the number of people at church not wearing a mask on May 30, there will likely be people there as well who are still wearing a mask. Anyone who would feel more comfortable wearing a mask at church is very welcome to do so.
Again, if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to an elder directly.
In Christ,
Brad Peace bwpeace@gmail.com
Rob Reeves reevesrc70@gmail.com
Krishna Vistarakula kvistarak@gmail.com
Kirk Cantor kcantor@pct.edu