Continuing with Phase 4.5 through August

The Responsible Building Use Task Force met this past week to review the Covid medical information for Minnesota and consider any changes for Westminster’s current status. The task force decided to continue with our current practices in Phase 4.5, which include masks are required in the church building and a 25% capacity limit for inside gatherings. Masks remain optional only during the 10:30 am Sunday service in Westminster Hall and for individuals meeting inside the church in groups of 30 or fewer if all in the group are fully vaccinated.

The task force will meet again in August and, at this point, is planning to move to Phase 5 on September 1. However, that will be determined based on the Covid positivity numbers for the Twin Cities as well as the percentage of individuals getting vaccinated. Phase 5 would increase inside room capacity to 50%, which would be 600 people in the sanctuary and 150 people in Westminster Hall.

In addition, new food protocols will begin in Phase 5. Food service will again include self-service buffets and potluck options with participants asked to use hand sanitizer before handling the service utensils.