Worship in the Sanctuary

Join us for Worship in the Sanctuary

Based on our region's return to Phase 4 and soon, Bridge to Phase 5, we are holding worship in the sanctuary at 10:00 a.m. with a limited number of people. Please click on the sign-up link to sign up  for a seat.

In addition, we will continue to hold online Zoom worship at 10:00 a.m. each week.

If you are unable to join us, our worship services will continue to be available for viewing on Facebook and our website after the service.

As a faith community who promotes caring ministries and relationships, we are bound to uphold the responsibility to "first do no harm." Our plan to return to the Sanctuary developed by our Return Team and Health Team committees is based on the continued reduced rate of new cases, positivity, deaths, and hospitalizations; and a significant increase in the rate of vaccinations in Illinois. Currently, the NIC Bishop and the CDC suggest we continue to avoid large groups, especially indoors, so we are limiting the number of individuals who may attend in-person worship.

Although vaccine news is hopeful and positive, the next few months will continue to be difficult as new variants of the coronavirus cause additional complications in the health crisis facing our nation. Experts tell us that the biggest coronavirus risk continues to be personal contact, especially indoors. We encourage all to remain cautious and pray for all those impacted by COVID-19.

What to Expect When You Attend Worship
• At this time, there will be a limited capacity of 30 people in the sanctuary, including pastors, staff, and volunteers who will help with the service.
• Face masks must be worn over the nose and mouth at all times.
• We will maintain social distancing at all times (minimum of six feet).
• Assigned Sanctuary seating will ensure adequate social distancing space.
• No childcare will be offered. Children may attend the service with you, but must stay close to you in your pew.
• There will be no singing of hymns, recitation of liturgy, prayers, passing the peace, passing of offering plates, or greeting handshakes.
• There will be no choir, wind instruments, or group music.
• Bibles, hymnals, and paper items are removed from the pew holders.
• Bulletins may be printed out at home and brought with you to the service and then taken with you when you leave.
• Worship music will continue to be offered on YouTube before, during, and after the service.
• Attendees must exit the building immediately following the service.
• Only one person at a time is allowed in the restrooms.

How to Attend Worship
• Seating for in-person worship will require online registration.
• The deadline to sign up for in-person worship each week is Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m.
• To sign up to attend on any Sunday, click here. Call the office if you have problems with online registration.
• A required health waiver is part of the sign-up process. Please read it over before you select the button.
• Canceling your in-person worship sign-up can also be done through the sign-up link. Please cancel as soon as you know that you cannot attend to enable someone on the waitlist to attend.
• We strongly encourage all with compromised immune systems or other health challenges to avoid in-person worship.