Hi First Presbyterian Church,

It’s time for our Mid-Week Meet-Up. It’s been a while since I’ve had to give you one of these kinds of updates, but I need to share some news with you relating to COVID. As you probably know, Gov. Kathy Hochul issued a requirement for wearing marks indoors based upon a determination from the NYS Health Commissioner. At its meeting last night, our Session acted to come into compliance with that NYS requirement. Here’s what that means for us:

Effective immediately, masks are required for everyone inside our building for any reason. This includes for all services in our sanctuary (worship, Christmas Eve, weddings, memorial services, etc.), for education, for socializing, for non-church related events, or for any other reason. The only time people may remove their masks is when they are actively eating or drinking, or when worship leaders are speaking while appropriately distanced (per county and state guidance).

We ask for your cooperation with the Session’s actions. Not only will these actions help us to keep one another safe, your cooperation will also help us to create a good witness to the community for Christ and the church (cf. Romans 13:1-7). Additionally, violations of the mask requirement could incur a $1,000 fee to the church for each person not wearing a mask.

All church functions will be continuing as planned. The only change is that masks will be required now. I’m sure some of you are unhappy about this requirement. Let’s do what’s being required of us and pray for one another, and we’ll make it through this together. I hope to see you in-person or online soon!

Peace to you,

Pastor Neff