Let's Finish Well | A Quick COVID Update
Hey church!
I (Scott) wanted to provide a quick word about the change in federal guidelines, impending change of Ohio health orders, and the announced lifting of all restrictions coming to the state on June 2nd.
First, half of our elders (among others!) are currently returning from an international missions trip. We've not had a chance to talk as a team, but will offer a more substantial update when we all get to touch base next week.
Second, nothing has legally changed for us here in Ohio yet. The CDC's new guidelines say:
"Fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, rules and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance."
These guidelines are welcome words for many of us! But the state and local requirements have not yet changed. The CDC's guidelines are merely that: guidelines. The Governor issued a statement directing the Ohio Department of Health to conform the remaining health orders to CDC guidance through June 2nd, when all restrictions in Ohio will be lifted. As of the time I'm writing this, however, the Ohio Department of Health has yet to amend those orders.
With all this in mind, this means that nothing will change for tomorrow's gathering. The Village has collectively walked with integrity through this entire ordeal, and we get to cross the finish line with that integrity intact. Thanks for being men and women of character who have chosen to make Christ supreme time and time again over the last year. What a gift! And what a grace to have relief on the horizon. We're looking forward to going there together!
Let's finish well.