Updated Seating & Capacity Guidelines

St. Stephen’s session is pleased to announce that we have increased the number of available seating “pods” in the sanctuary from 37 to 56. We have also redefined the awful word “pod” to mean individuals, couples or families but also folks who have already had vaccinations who preregister to sit together and different families or couples who are already a pod. We did this because in some cases two or more church families or couples have continued to hang out with each other throughout the pandemic and so are a pod; and because there is no reason that those who have received vaccinations cannot sit together. There’s no need to sit alone if you don’t want to! We are requiring however that you pre-register together so that we know ahead of time that you intend to sit together.

We continue to abide by what science is telling us regarding COVID-19 safety. Our new seating arrangement still allows for six feet or more between pods. All our other health safety procedures remain in place. People must wear masks and practice social distancing. Only the choir will sing as there are many health concerns about how singing spreads the virus. We will continue to exit via the West Transept to avoid gathering in the narthex but we do encourage you to gather in a safe fashion on the lawn if you wish to socialize (we notice you doing it anyway in the parking lot so you might as well do it in a more comfortable space!).

-Rev. Fritz Ritsch