(updated July 31, 2021)
Below are updated guidelines for attending services. We are committed to making thoughtful and informed decisions based on data as provided by the following institutions:
WELCOME BACK!
Here's how to attend:
If you are feeling ill or have a fever, we kindly request you join us for our service online (see below).
Our hospitality service is currently prepackaged items. You are welcome to bring snacks and we do recommend a water bottle. ABSOLUTELY NO PORK OR SHELLFISH.
We will be providing single serve disposable communion (regular and gluten free), however, you are welcome to bring your own communion elements.
We will be providing chairs, but will leave space for people to bring their own chairs and blankets. It'll be fun, like a picnic!
We are encouraging all people of any vaccination status to mask when interacting with others, even outside.
Some portions are shady, and some are sunny. The wind can pick up, so perhaps bring a light jacket. Sunglasses too. Here is a photo taken May 12, at 5:20 p.m. for reference.
WHEN YOU ARRIVE
Three different colors and two different sizes (adult and child) will be available for you to take when you arrive. Please keep whatever band you take (they're a free gift), and you may obviously change colors at any time. The goal of this system is to provide a no-pressure, guilt-free, and simple way for Sparkers to communicate with each other about their own levels of comfort.
RED
NO CONTACT
MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCE WHEN CONVERSING
NO EATING WITH OTHERS
YELLOW
ELBOW BUMPS
CONVERSATIONAL DISTANCE OKAY
DISTANCED EATING OKAY
GREEN
HUGS/HANDSHAKES
NO MASKS
EAT TOGETHER
ONLINE SERVICES
For Sparkers who need or prefer to join us online for service, a Zoom link will be provided in the "Weekly" email. You will need to be subscribed to that email to join each week.
FAQ's
Do I need to share my vaccination status?
NO.
According to good science and good public health, anyone and everyone who can, should get vaccinated. We also understand that one's vaccination status is a topic of public conversation for which it is common to share (for example, Spark's entire staff is fully vaccinated). We encourage this conversation, however, there is no requirement for you to share your information in the context of our community.
Do we need to wear masks?
NO. But it is encouraged.
98.6% of the 73 people who took Spark's survey disclosed being fully vaccinated as of June 6. Changes and developing understanding of new variants are raising new concerns regarding transmissibility of COVID. We are paying attention to case numbers in our area and are now encouraging all to wear a mask when interacting with others, even while outdoors.
What is our kid plan?
Please attend with your family.
We will not be providing any separate programming for our kids, yet. We will be accommodating our services to include the entire family. Oh, and the playground and toys are also available for use (please return all items back to their original state before leaving. Thank you!)
Do kids need to wear masks?
YES.
The data on kids is in constant development and at times difficult to discern. We are requesting that kids ages 2 and up to remain masked as they attend. (No child under the age of 2 should be masked due to suffocation risk.)
Will we have access to the building, for bathrooms, sinks, etc.?
YES.
Please mask indoors.