Grounded in our church’s mission of ministry and care for each member of our congregation and staff, especially the most vulnerable among us, during this time of immediate concern about the spread of COVID-19, the SPC Session with the support of the Worship & Music Committee, has decided to change our mode of worship for the coming weeks.

This is a significant decision that the Session of SPC did not take lightly. At such a time as this, it is even more important for members of this body of Christ to care for and support each other. After thoughtful consideration of how best to protect the health of our members and considering our social responsibility to our larger community, we have agreed it is far better to be proactive rather than reactive at this time of impending pandemic. Our church is blessed to be advised by a panel of healthcare professionals, including experts in infectious disease. While many details about COVID-19 remain unknown, it is very likely that gatherings of people can foster the spread of the infection, since this is a virus that can be carried by people who are symptom free. Without testing kits available to test everyone, it is impossible to be certain who is carrying the virus. Already many institutions are taking similar action, for example by banning travel or prohibiting meetings of over six people. Several colleges in our region are moving all instruction online and asking students not to return to school after spring break. Especially when considering the potential impact of COVID-19 on our congregation, it is important to understand that the potential severity and death rate of the disease increases dramatically for the elderly and infirm.