Emmanuel has returned to in-person worship on Sundays with one service at 9:30am in the main church. As we regather, we want to share some additional details about what you will encounter when you return to church.
Emmanuel's practice of being open, welcoming, and affirming to all of God's children is unchanged. Everything we do in this next era of gathered worship is rooted and grounded in the love that God has for absolutely everyone. While we will likely be in different pews than we are used to, and some aspects of the liturgy will be reimagined, our doors remain open to all.
Our recent survey indicated that better than 90% of respondents were fully or partially vaccinated. Yay! However, we cannot guarantee that everyone in attendance will be fully vaccinated, so we will continue to follow familiar safety practices:
Face masks that cover nose and mouth will be required at all times
Seating will be limited to designated pews
Non-household groups may be seated together
Greeting and passing the peace can include fist bumps, and elbow touching, but still no handshakes. For now, we'll remain in the pews for the Peace.
Following guidance from the Diocese of Maryland, congregational singing is now possible! With your face mask firmly in place you may sing along with us.
Speaking of music, we will have a soloist each Sunday through the summer. If restrictions on singing are lifted further we will have a full choir beginning in September.
We will share the Eucharist. Alleluia! The Sacrament will be received in one form only, the bread, and will be distributed in a contactless way. Specific instructions will be printed in the service leaflet and will be reviewed during Welcome & Announcements as well.
We will continue to offer online worship. This option has become an important part of our worship life, and we plan to have online offerings from now on.