COVID-19 PROTOCOLS

May 27:

Given the high rate of transmission of COVID-19 in Cook County, the CDC is recommending wearing masks indoors in public. FUMCAH will follow its recommendation and encourage masks at all indoor church events.

Updated COVID-19 Protocols as of March 22
Given that the CDC has determined that the COVID-19 spread in our community is low, the Health and Safety Committee has made the following changes to our current practices:

  • Masks are optional for all ages in church ministries. We will continue to have sections in the Sanctuary that are designated “mask required” areas. If our church is hosting another organization’s program or partnering with another organization that requires mask wearing, we will follow the more cautious approach.

  • Meals and food are permitted. There is no longer a limit on the size of gatherings for food. Ministries like summer suppers can host guests inside, the JAM community meal can resume, and the bereaved can have funeral receptions.

  • Communion via intinction will resume. We will have hand sanitizing stations where congregants will clean their hands before being handed a piece of bread. They will then dip that bread into the cup. Pre-filled wafers and cups will be available at each communion station, as well as gluten free bread.

We are aware that the CDC’s risk assessment is based on community transmission and the stress on the health care system caused by COVID-19. Individuals who are medically vulnerable might still have a high risk of not only catching COVID-19, but of severe disease. We want to continue to care for one another during this time, therefore, if you or your child are medically vulnerable, please tell the staff person responsible for that program. We will work with you to see what accommodations might be made. If the CDC determines that community transmission is at medium (yellow) or high (orange), we will adjust our practices.

Please contact Melinda Kirby at m.kirby@fumcah.com or 847-255-5112 to schedule any meetings in the church or on its grounds, or for further information.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH)