PCJH COVID Update
May 21, 2021
Dear PCJH Family,
The PCJH Session met this past Tuesday at their regular monthly meeting in order to provide the congregation with further guidance as it relates to COVID and PCJH ministry programs in light of recent CDC and Teton County recommendations.
First and foremost, “Way to go Jackson Hole!!” We are now in the green zone, and the new normal. Job well done!! Thank you for all you have done to help “shred the spread.” We especially want to acknowledge and extend our gratitude to those from our congregation who have volunteered countless hours with the local vaccination clinics in Teton County. Thank you!!
While we celebrate this milestone, we also realize our world is not completely out of the woods yet, so we want to do all we can to keep our congregation healthy and Jackson Hole in the green zone. Therefore, we want to let you know what Session’s guidance is as it relates to all PCJH ministry programs and worship on Sundays.
Guidance for the Vaccinated (12 years old and up):
In accordance with the CDC, if a person has been fully vaccinated (and waited the two weeks after their second shot) that person no longer needs to wear a mask nor practice social distancing indoors or outdoors at PCJH (unless they are working directly with our children’s programs – see below). We also want to acknowledge that some who are vaccinated may still want to wear a mask and practice social distancing.
Guidance for the Unvaccinated (12 years old and up):
If a person has not yet received a full vaccination, then we are encouraging that person, in consideration of others and themselves, to wear a mask indoors at PCJH until there is a change in CDC guidance. ***We will not be policing mask usage. We trust that you will make responsible decisions based on the guidance provided by the CDC.
Guidance for Children (0 – 11 years old):
Our children’s programs for students Kindergarten through 5th grade will continue to use masks until further guidance is provided by the CDC. This means all children (K-5), and adult volunteers/staff are being asked to use a mask while participating with PCJH children’s activities and programs. Children under the age of Kindergarten are exempt from this.
We encourage our congregation to continue to move forward with courage and caution with the intent of doing our best to be a congregation thoughtfully loving one another, and also ensuring we do our part to help our community remain in the green zone.
Feel free to send a note to any member of Session with your thoughts, concerns or questions. Also, know that the pastors are more than willing to meet with you to discuss any specific questions or concerns you may have in regards to this new guidance as it relates to your unique personal situation.
Thank you for continuing to be gracious to one another in this unprecedented time. Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” -John13:34-35
In Christ,
-Pastor Ben & Tammy and the PCJH Session of Elders