KITTITAS – Church services (in a modified format) will be available for in-person services starting this weekend. Churches will be required to follow the State Governor’s requirements to have in-person services, which include limiting people to 25% of their capacity or a maximum of 50 people (whichever number is smaller).
Dr. Mark Larson spoke to Kittitas County Church Leaders this morning to discuss these guidelines and field questions from local leaders. Questions ranged from masking requirements to the allowance of outdoor services and choir restrictions. The Governor’s requirements mean that all employees and participants are required to wear masks at all times. Choir services are not allowed at this time. Parishioners may sing during service but must keep a cloth face covering on at all times. Outdoor services are also allowed.
Kittitas County Church Leaders asked fantastic questions and clearly showed concern for the safety of their congregations. All churches are also required to have a safety plan in place. “Our first concern is the safety of our congregation and we are excited to welcome people back to in-person services,” states Gary Bye, Kittitas New Life Assembly. “We realize that not all churches are able to open at this time and we encourage church leaders to show due caution for safety.”
State requirements regarding Phase 2 are available at https://coronavirus.wa.gov/. If you have questions about your health, please contact your healthcare provider or you can call the Temporary COVID Clinic at KVH at 509-933-8850. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the Emergency Department at KVH. If you have general questions about COVID-19, please call the EOC at 509-933-8315 or 509-933-8305.
Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us
