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GSBC COVID-19 UPDATED PROTOCOLS

TRANSITION AWAY FROM THE EMERGENCY PHASE OF COVID 19

EFFECTIVE SUNDAY MAY 7, 2023

“Based on current COVID-19 trends, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is planning for the federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19, declared under Section 319 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, to expire at the end of the day on May 11, 2023. Our response to the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, remains a public health priority, but thanks to the administration’s whole-of-government approach to combatting the virus, we are in a better place in our response than we were three years ago, and we can transition away from the emergency phase.”

In transitioning away from the emergency phase and providing for and maintaining a low-risk healthy environment, the following practices will be implemented effective Sunday, May 7, 2023.




The wearing of masks is optional but strongly encouraged. People may choose to mask at any time. If positivity rates rise for the community, mask protocols will be reinstated.




People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to worship with us virtually.
GSBC will continue to maintain regular ventilation maintenance and improvements as well as appropriate cleaning and disinfecting of the building after public events.




Giving opportunities continue to include all our digital/online platforms.

Envelopes for on-site giving will be available at a central location in the lobby before entering the sanctuary or other areas designated for worship.




Envelopes for on-site giving will continue to be deposited in collection baskets/

tithe boxes when entering/exiting the sanctuary or other designated worship areas.




Social distancing will continue to be emphasized. Unless there is an absolute necessity to accommodate full capacity seating for the sanctuary/ theater/fellowship hall GSBC will continue to apply 3’-6’ distancing.  According to CDC, a person is more likely to get or spread COVID-19 or any infectious disease when they are in close contact with people who do not live within the same household.




 

For Communion, all persons will continue to pick up communion elements upon entry into the lobby/Sanctuary.




A “First Aid’ health station will continue to be in place for all events held at GSBC. Masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, wipes, emergency healthy snacks/water, etc. will be available at the station, as needed.




Hand hygiene dispensers will continue to be in place throughout the building, handwashing practices and distribution of information related to health practices that reduce the number of sick individuals in the church and community will be provided in the information kiosk.