An Update on COVID Safety Measures at the Parking Deck
Redeemer Church Family,
In light of positive developments regarding community transmission of COVID-19 and related hospitalizations, we will be relaxing the requirement to wear a mask at our outdoor worship gatherings.
The state-wide mask mandate, which began in June 2020 and was just extended until April 9th, requires face coverings for all indoor activities. Additionally, the regulations require masks outdoors where individuals cannot maintain six feet for social distancing. Out of an abundance of caution and at the advice of medical professionals within our community, we have gone beyond the state expectations and required continuous mask-wearing at our outdoor worship gatherings.
Beginning this Sunday, we will implement a "mask on the move" strategy, which has become a common practice in many facilities in recent months. We ask that you continue to wear a mask anytime you are not in your selected spot for the service. Once you have chosen a socially distanced seating area, you are welcome to remove your mask.
We believe this is a reasonable step for our outdoor services. Further, this move is also within recent suggestions and mandates established by state and local officials.
Dr. Sarah Nafziger, UAB's VP of Clinic Support Services, recently stated that "Alabama isn't out of the woods yet" with COVID-19. At the same time, we recognize the growing spiritual, emotional, and mental health needs within our congregation.
As we have talked about numerous times in our study of Philippians, in Christ, we are given the ability to put others' needs ahead of our own. Right now, the needs of others in our community are diverse. For some, strict COVID protocols are helpful. For others, they are harmful. That is why changes like this must be carried out with both urgency and temperance.
We know the change to "masks on the move" won't suit everyone. We have diverse opinions in our church, including within our leadership. At times, it is hard to know what kindness should look like. But we do know this - the love of Jesus compels us to look out for one another and surrender our preferences to His Lordship. May we keep in mind His Lordship in view of the many and varied ways people are hurting right now.
We are grateful for the way you are bearing with us as we seek to be faithful and follow the Spirit's leadership. Let's keep praying for one another and looking for ways to stir one another up to love and good works for the glory of Christ Jesus, our Lord.
Blessings,
The Senior Pastor Team
Joel Brooks
Lead Pastor
Josh Hausen
Executive Pastor
Jeff Heine
Shepherding Pastor
