November 17, 2020
Dear Friends in Christ,
Across Pennsylvania, COVID-19 infections continue to escalate, with no end in sight. With the coming of Thanksgiving, I am very concerned that a general weariness with the restrictions of the pandemic, combined with holiday gatherings of loved ones, may result in a “perfect storm” that could dramatically increase the danger to the health of our congregations.
Accordingly I ask us all to observe the following parameters:
1) If you gather for Thanksgiving and/or the weekend following with more than your immediate household, including any out of town guests, please refrain from attending in-person worship through Sunday, December 13, and instead join services online.
2) When attending worship, please continue to adhere to the protocols we have established across the diocese:
-
- masks,
- social distancing,
- hand-washing,
- the occupancy, seating, entrance and exit plans already implemented in your congregation.
3) Please be especially careful to practice the first three of these measures whenever you leave your home.
I note that some parishes have not yet resumed in-person worship and do not intend to do so in the near future, while others may choose to pause worshiping in person during this time. I believe these decisions are being carefully made, and I am wholly supportive.
I know we are all tired of this. However, the virus remains full of energy and eager to capitalize on any weakness in our defenses. Let us not give it any opportunity. And as always, in all things, let us honor our Lord Jesus Christ by having His mind among us, looking not only to our own interests but to the interests of others. (Philippians 2:4-5)
You all continue daily in my grateful prayers.
Faithfully your bishop,
(The Right Reverend) Dorsey W.M. McConnell, D.D.
VIII Bishop of Pittsburgh