BE COVID SAFE

Here are some FAQs to help assist you as we reopen for in-person worship services. If you have any questions before you register, please contact Emily DeLew at emily@thenewcom.com

Do I need to register to attend in-person worship?

Yes! We are following governmental COVID guidelines to offer limited seating to ensure everyone’s health and safety during worship, and to be able to contact trace, if necessary.

Do I need to register everyone in my household?  

Please register every person who will be attending in-person worship. This will allow us to plan well and create a socially-distanced environment.

What about kids?

We are not offering in-person Kid City classes or childcare at this time, but kids are welcome to attend the service with their parents. The Fellowship Hall is set up as a family-friendly space with activities and toys. Each family can sit at their own table with their activities while the service is live-streamed into the Fellowship Hall. Antibacterial wipes will be provided for families to wipe down any toys/activities after the kids are done. 

What happens when I arrive?

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before worship begins (9:45 am at the latest). Upon entry to the building, there will be a check-in station where you will have your temperature taken, can sanitize your hands, and pick up your nametag. A connection team member will usher you to your socially-distanced seat. 

What COVID-19 protocols will we be following for our safety? 

● Masks are required for every adult and child, ages 3+ years, and are to be worn at all times. 

● Sanctuary seating will be socially-distanced, with a maximum of two groups per pew. 

● Windows will be open for ventilation and air purifiers will be on, if applicable.

● If you are feeling unwell or have any COVID-19 symptoms, please plan to stay home and watch the live stream.

Why do I need to indicate my vaccination status in the registration form? 

Vaccination is the primary protection against COVID-19 infection and transmission. The governmental guidelines for capacity limits are dependent on the number of unvaccinated attendees. Since we are seeking to uphold these guidelines, it is important for us to know how many vaccinated/unvaccinated people are in the building at a given time.

Are all volunteers fully vaccinated?

Most are fully vaccinated.

I’m vaccinated, so why do I need to wear a mask? 

The Chicago Department of Public Health strongly recommends that everyone, regardless of vaccination status, continues to wear masks while in indoor group settings if vaccination statuses are not verified for each attendee. Since a church service is a larger gathering with singing, we are upholding the CDPH’s recommendations. We will continue to monitor these recommendations and adjust our requirements accordingly. 

Will the services still be online/live-streamed?

Yes, absolutely. We understand that not everyone will be able to make it to church or feel comfortable doing so. Also, online services are wonderful opportunities to invite an unchurched friend, neighbor, or co-worker, as folks often prefer to “try church on online” before they show up in person.