Letter from the General Secretary (11 May 20) - Step 1: Opening places of worship

Dear ministry leaders and members of congregations

11 May 2020

We thank you, presbyteries and congregations who are working hard, taking positive steps to respond to the global outbreak of COVID-19 and helping to prevent the spread of the virus.

On Friday 8th May the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, launched the Australian Governments three step plan to a COVID-safe country. South Australia’s Premier, Steven Marshall held a press conference on the same day to address the decisions of the National Cabinet and how they will impact South Australian communities. He then released the roadmap for lifting restrictions, Step 1 of which commenced today (11 May 2020).

The Crisis Management Team met this morning and we understand that places of worship are allowed to open for small religious gatherings, private worship, small group activities and small meetings, provided that the government requirements and recommendations are strictly observed.

Step 1 of the recovery package tells us that public worship and other larger services are not permitted but allows for and encourages the ongoing recording and live streaming for these events.

The Synod office is receiving increasing numbers of enquiries from congregations and presbyteries seeking advice about this latest advice. We hope the following guidelines will assist congregations and presbyteries to make decisions.

What does this mean for UCA congregations and other ministries in SA?

ADHERENCE TO GOVERNMENT’S ADVISE

A maximum of 10 people are able to be onsite at any one time.
Congregations must limit the number of people onsite to 1 person per 4 square metres.
The observing and encouragement of physical distancing to maintain at least 1.5 metres between people is essential.
Facilitating good hygiene, including offering hand sanitiser at entrances and exits
Frequently clean and disinfect benches, fixtures and other heavy duty locations.
Congregations are required to keep records of attendance, including names and contact details, with people signing in and out of the building. These lists need to be kept in a private but accessible place. This will assist the church to trace and contact people if required. Synod has prepared a sign in sheet template which can be adapted for your congregation’s purposes. Click here to download.

WORSHIP AND OTHER ACTIVITIES

More information about the Places of Worship – Step 1 Fact Sheet, can be downloaded here
We encourage you to continue worshiping in creative and innovative ways, being cautious and sensitive to the needs of vulnerable people as the restrictions are eased.
As described above, Church buildings may open to a maximum of ten people for worship preparation, planning for live streaming and recording of worship services.
Step 1 does not permit ;
-        large public meetings, congregational meetings or services of public worship.
-        Sunday school, kids church, youth groups, sport activities or training involving face-to-face contact.
-        food or catering, including tea, coffee, supper etc to be provided for consumption while small groups of people are in church buildings
-        Individuals who are feeling unwell or even mildly so, to attend church buildings or any face-to-face gatherings.

PASTORAL CARE AND CHURCH MEETINGS

A growing number of people are experiencing anxiety during this unprecedented time. Please continue intentional pastoral care with phone calls, text message or other social media outreach methods. With careful consultation with families, pastoral visiting by 2 people is permitted.
We have been particularly concerned about our active retirees. It is now possible for healthy people under 80 years of age to participate in church activities providing they have consulted their GP and can assure the church that they have permission to attend. It is also requested for these individuals that the attendance record shows that permission has been given.
Vulnerable groups, such as people with chronic health conditions or over 80s are not permitted to attend face-to-face church activities at this time.
Church meetings can be held as long as they are kept to a maximum of 10 people and physical distancing principles are observed.
All small group gatherings (e.g. Bible studies and prayer groups) held in private spaces, such as in people’s homes, are not encouraged and if held must adhere to government’s guidance, including the 4 sq metre rule.
Online meetings remain the preferred way to gather.

ACTIVITIES IN CHURCH FACILITIES

Church offices may continue to operate with staff as required to a maximum of 10 people.
The hiring out or provision of church buildings (such as church halls) and other facilities to external groups is not possible at this time.
The Synod is keen to see congregational Op Shops open. There will be further information and guidelines regarding OP-SHOPs later in the week. You might like to start thinking about how your Op Shop will be able to adhere to the current restrictions regarding physical distancing, hygiene and numbers of people attending an indoor space.
Outdoor activities are possible, and when conducted safely (according to the Governments guidelines) are encouraged.

WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS

Weddings are permitted for up to 10 guests, excluding the celebrant and the couple, but including any necessary staff to facilitate the event.
No food or beverages are to be provided for consumption.
Funerals are permitted with no more than 20 people if held indoor, or 30 people if it is held outdoors.
Attendee records must be kept for all events.
It is still not possible to conduct baptismal services.

GIVING

Please continue to encourage online giving via direct debit or arrange a safe process for regular giving.

EMERGENCY FOOD RELIEF

Congregations involved with the distribution of emergency relief food parcels must contact Rev. Tim Hodgson (Executive Officer UnitingCare SA): thodgson@sa.uca.org.au or 8236 4276 before proceeding.

SYNOD STAFF UPDATE

We anticipate that personnel will not return to Synod office, campus, or venue based work until Step 3 of the current plans.
Synod staff will continue to operate with a minimal number of personnel at all sites until further notice.

STAY CONNECTED - CONTACT US

Thank you again for the great way everyone is seeking to care for each other, stay connected and worshipping God in new and different ways. It is wonderful to see emerging expressions of being church not imagined possible two months ago.

Continue to pray for our church, for Synod, Presbytery and Congregational leaders and staff, for the Government, community decision makers, front line workers and health professionals as they continue to serve and seek to keep our communities safe.

As the situation changes, please keep a regular check on Synod website (https://sa.uca.org.au/uniting-church-media-releases/covid-19-update), as well as Government advise.

Stay connected with your presbyteries and if you have any further questions, please contact Associate General Secretary, Rev Sue Page spage@sa.uca.org.au or on 8236 4217 or Executive Officer Placements & Safe Church, Rev Philip Gardner pgardner@sa.uca.org.au or on 8236 4268