Note from Rev. Rachel Regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Dear St. Cross Family and Friends of the Parish,

There are many unknowns about the coronavirus, or COVID-19, and how it may affect us in the South Bay. In our life at St. Cross, we are proceeding in such a way as to best protect all in our community, and we are prepared to be flexible in our approach as we learn more.

Over the past few weeks, we have adopted some of our "flu season" behaviors -- elbow-bumps when passing the peace, for example -- and altered communion, foregoing the common cup (as discussed here by our Diocesan Bishop John Taylor). Beginning today, we have a few more announcements regarding alterations to our schedule, and we will continue to update our Coronavirus page with additional information as needed.

First, St. Cross will not be participating in the Hermosa Beach St. Patrick's Day Parade this weekend, March 14. At this time, we do not encourage even our low-risk population to attend large, uncontrolled and crowded gatherings as it appears to be fairly easy for low-risk individuals to later transmit this virus to higher-risk individuals. (Remember: wash hands thoroughly, avoid touching your face, and follow these other guidelines outlined here on the CDC website.)

Secondly, until further notice, ALL Sociable Seniors gatherings are cancelled. Know that we will continue to exercise an abundance of caution with our Seniors and that Rev. Nathan will continue to be in contact with members of our Sociable Seniors community.

Third, while we ARE continuing with our Wednesday Night study this week, we implore all to practice "social distancing" (keeping a distance of 6 feet between yourself and others) and other safe behaviors, such as hand washing, not touching your face and so forth.

Fourth, there will be additional changes to our Sunday services. The offering plates will be at the entrance and not passed during the service, the font will not be filled, and we will continue with the rest of the Diocese of Los Angeles to forego the common cup.

Finally, we are working this week to improve ways we can all connect online. Expect improved audio and video for our 10 AM church service this week, and we will also be making the service bulletin available online prior to the service. We will have more to communicate about this in our weekly email on Thursday.

I want to thank you all in the congregation for the flexibility, good humor and positive spirit you have exhibited throughout this experience. We will continue to act on the best information we have in order to keep everyone safe at St. Cross.

Please refer to the following page for our latest updates: stcross.org/covid-19/

Sincerely,

Rev. Rachel+

Note from Rev. Rachel Regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

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