Some Georgia businesses may be opening their doors, but many churches are holding back on in-person worship services.
Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson recently posted a message on the conference's web site explaining the decision.
“We know how much you miss each other and long to be together,” she said in the statement. “After talking with medical experts and reviewing data today, we are asking you not to gather before June 22... This is the date current models predict that we in Georgia can begin safely relaxing our shelter-at-home strategies.”
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She said churches could still hold drive-in services as long as they follows a list of suggested guidelines to risk the spread of COVID-19.
As they have for the last few weeks, churches in the conference are encouraged to hold online services.
Among the guidelines for in-person services:
Remove pew hymnals and Bibles and use, instead, projected slides and verbal instruction. People should be encouraged to bring their own Bibles.
Collect offerings in bins at the entrances of the sanctuary so that people can give their offerings as they enter or leave.
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Maintain social distancing, not just once in the church but in the parking and as congregants enter and leave the building.
Avoid hugging and shaking hands.
Wear face masks, either personal or provided by the church.
Do not have a choir sing at in-person worship.
Form a health committee that includes a medical professional plus representatives from trustees and hospitality and greeters.
The facility should be cleaned and sanitized before and after each worship service.
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