Our plans to gather again
Updated June 4, 2020
Hello Church Family!
We are excited to announce that we are taking the next steps in reopening Cornerstone. Although there is SO much more that we wish we could do, we feel confident that our current plan will help us continue to minister to the spectrum of people in our community. Here is a basic summary of what will be staying the same and what will be changing in the next few weeks. HOWEVER, things have a way of shifting quickly so be sure to continue to check here for the latest. Also, for a longer explanation from the Pastors, view the video below.
We will continue to record our Sunday morning service and broadcast it at 10 AM on Sunday
We hope that you will continue to view the service at 10 AM on Sundays with your family or others you with whom feel comfortable gathering around.
Those who are able are invited to join us for a scaled-back Worship Service on Wednesdays at 7 PM (beginning June 10th). During this time the weekly message will be delivered. To figure out if you feel comfortable attending, scroll down to the "What to Expect When You Come to Cornerstone" section below.
We’re excited to welcome everyone back to Cornerstone…
…but the reality is that nothing about the coronavirus itself has actually changed. It’s as virulent and deadly as ever. Even with adherence to physical distancing, convening in a congregational setting of multiple different households carries a relatively higher risk for widespread transmission of the COVID-19 virus, and may result in increased rates of infection, hospitalization, and death, especially among more vulnerable populations. In particular, activities such as singing and group recitation negate the risk-reduction achieved through six feet of physical distancing.
To promote the health and safety of all staff, volunteers, and fellow congregants, and to follow guidelines from County, State, and Federal officials, you will be screened before entering the building, asked to wear a face covering, and will be reminded to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and other family units.
Before attending a service in-person, you’re encouraged to review the guidelines below.
What to expect when you come to Cornerstone
Upon arrival
Body temperature checks
Each person (staff and volunteers included) will have their temperature read by a contact-less thermometer. A temperature reading of 100.0 degrees and above is too high and will prevent you from being able to attend.Face masks
Masks that cover the mouth and nose will be required to be worn except when a person is speaking from the stage or for children under the age of two. Please try to bring a mask with you, however we will have some available just in case.Hand sanitizer will be required and provided for everyone upon entry.
Once inside
There will be a one-way traffic flow. Enter through the front doors and exit out the large sliding glass side door.
To reduce the number of common touch surfaces, doors will be propped open and no bulletin or any other kind of printed materials will be available.
Offering can be placed in the Joy Box as you exit.
Music may be played, but singing will not be incorporated into the Wednesday service.
Restrooms will be available; however we encourage limited use.
Chairs will be positioned at least six feet apart for appropriate social distancing.
Children and Student programs will not be available.
Families may sit together with at least six feet between them and others. Chairs will be grouped together as needed.
Maintain a safe distance from others when passing and/or greeting each other (no hugging or handshaking). Keep conversations to a minimum.
Although we do not expect a large number to attend, we must limit the capacity of the sanctuary to 75.
No food or beverage will be served or allowed in the building.
Public Health officials strongly recommend people age 65 and older, those with comorbidities, or those with compromised immune systems to continue isolating at home. However, we will honor and respect the decision that you make for yourself.
Previous updates
May 22, 2020
Dear Cornerstone Family,
We pray that you are doing well and being strengthened in the Lord during this time. You may have heard that today the President declared religious “in person” services as essential. At this point, we are still waiting for further instruction from the State and County. The governor just shared that on Monday, May 25th they will release statewide guidance for churches and faith communities regarding reopening. Once we have this information, the staff and council will be able to finalize our plan for onsite preparations and what it will look like to meet “live.”
That being said, please remember that reopening does not mean we will be able to meet in the same way we did before COVID-19. Things will look very different…and that is okay. For the last couple of months our church rhythms have looked different, but we have continued to be the body of Christ in so many surprising and beautiful ways. Praise be to the One who is faithful in all circumstances! We look forward to sharing more with you soon. In the meantime, we invite you to join us for worship online at 10am Sunday morning.
Grace and Peace,
Pastors Amanda and Greg
