On May 14, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed Executive Order 79 (EO-79) which goes into effect at midnight on May 28. EO-79 ends most COVID restrictions in Virginia, removing the face covering requirement for those who are fully vaccinated, while stating that unvaccinated people aged 5 and older should continue to use a mask. In light of EO-79 and CDC guidance, Portico Church Arlington will cease COVID safety procedures beginning Sunday, May 30. This means that we will no longer:
Require registration for attendance.
Take your temperature prior to entrance.
Require a mask for entry.
Escort you to a seat.
Require social distancing.
The Portico Kids ministry will continue to align with CDC recommendations for K-12 schools at this time. This means that volunteers and participating children will be required to wear a mask.
WHY ARE WE CHANGING OUR COVID SAFETY PROCEDURES NOW?
From the beginning of the pandemic, our approach has been to align Portico procedures and protocols with the requirements of the Federal Government and more specifically, the State of Virginia. Our approach remains the same. More importantly, we believe that following the guidance of EO-79 (and the CDC) is safe and reasonable.
WHAT ARE WE ASKING PORTICO ATTENDERS TO DO?
In short, we are asking attenders to abide by EO-79.
Feel free to attend worship without a mask if you are fully vaccinated (2 weeks since final dose).
If you are not fully vaccinated, you are strongly encouraged to wear a mask. You will not be asked to verify your vaccination status.
You are free to continue wearing a mask in service for any reason. Masks are not banned.
Regardless of your vaccination status, If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, please don’t attend service and consult your healthcare professional.
WHAT ABOUT KIDS IN SERVICE?
We are not asking children to wear a mask during service. Parents are responsible for the safety of their children and therefore, must decide if they want their children 5 and older to use a mask in service.HOW
SHOULD WE FEEL/THINK ABOUT THIS?
Thankful. We have prayed repeatedly for God’s mercy in reducing the impact of COVID-19. Virginia has seen the virus numbers plunge allowing for the relaxing of restrictions. This gives us reason to praise God.
Humble. This information may irritate you or be a cause for celebration. All of us have differing experiences and convictions when it comes to handling COVID-19. It’s important we don’t idolize our personal preferences, fears, or freedoms. God calls us to “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:3–5 ESV)
Unified. “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV). There will be people in our service who are wearing masks and those without masks – all for various reasons. Don’t make conclusions or judgements. Don’t let differing convictions on how to approach COVID-19 become a dividing wall of hostility. Do extend grace, understanding, and seek to outdo one another in showing honor (Romans 12:10). I cannot overstate how proud I am at how you’ve handled the various difficulties COVID-19 has presented our church over the past year. Everyone has complied without complaining, going above and beyond to serve one another. You’ve been a vivid picture of how Jesus calls his people to live together in gospel-unity. Thank you.
As always, thank you for your patience and understanding.
Yours In Christ,
Jason Conner
Lead Pastor
Portico Church Arlington