Below is an outline of our practices to create safe, in-person ministry gatherings at Bellaire UMC in a season of continued uncertainty resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.  We care deeply about the health and safety of our congregation and community, so guidance from local and national health officials has helped us develop the following guidelines when gathering for church events.

FACE MASKS

We request that everyone wear a mask or other face covering while in indoor public spaces at Bellaire UMC.  This is for three reasons: 

• Not everyone in our church family has had the opportunity to be vaccinated (specifically those under age 12), and continuing to mask up is a way to honor that reality.
• There are many in our congregation and community who remain uncomfortable in settings where are others are unmasked.  Thus, continuing to mask up is an opportunity for us to love and welcome those among us who are, or feel, most vulnerable.
• The Delta variant is surging in Houston, hospitalizations are up, and breakthrough infections are increasing.  Local medical professionals have advised Houstonians to mask up, regardless of vaccination status.

BUILDING SAFETY

• Doors are held open during known entry/exit times
• When appropriate, one-way traffic patterns are established through entries/exits/corridors
• Hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the building; we also encourage everyone to bring and use their own hand sanitizer
• No food or drink will be served, unless pre-packaged and individually-wrapped
• Enhanced cleaning practices following CDC guidelines are in place throughout the building

GROUP GATHERINGS

• Registration may be required for worship services and room reservations are required other scheduled gatherings (Sunday school classes, etc.) in order to ensure proper space for social distancing
• Gathering spaces are modified as appropriate to allow for social distancing (3 feet or more between people, per CDC guidelines)
• Worship services are designed to be “no contact” between people who are unrelated (modified communion practices, no passing of the peace)
• Small groups of fully-vaccinated individuals (such as Sunday school classes) may choose to meet unmasked in classrooms or other reserved spaces.

Please contact us at info@bellaireumc.org if you have questions.