What does Phase 4 mean for UCE?
Thank you to those who’ve had a chance to fill out the survey about your comfort in relation to UCE opening our building, and to provide information regarding your experience of our virtual gatherings. If you haven’t done so yet, it’s not too late. Please see the link below.
Of the 35 who responded, about 64% have health considerations or age-related factors, which contribute to your overall discomfort with reopening. While this is a small sample, we feel this confirms the caution most of us are feeling. I want to reiterate that we are not considering large, indoor gatherings (including Sunday worship or Wednesday evening All Church gatherings) until Illinois enters Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan.
The discussions that have taken place among UCE ministers, staff, and leadership have been rooted in the science and recommendations of the Illinois Department of Public Health, CDC, and the UUA. We have created a comprehensive set of guidelines for limited use of the building and grounds, with an abundance of caution. And we welcome your input through the survey regarding how we can continue to improve our virtual gather spaces. As we consider ways of fostering connection and well-being, we ask that you review these guidelines thoroughly before approaching staff with questions, concerns, or to request a small in-person gathering at UCE, either outside or in one of our large rooms (sanctuary, room 3 or 6).
Again, on-line worship, meetings, and gatherings are still the safest option. However, we recognize that in the absence of guarantees, and a need to minimize risks while living within the confines of the pandemic long-term, we will be offering opportunities for small groups to meet outside (25 or fewer) or indoors (10 or fewer) with social distancing of 6 feet, face masks, and proper sanitation practices.
Each person will need to attend to their own needs and comfort. Each small group or committee must work together, in covenant, to make decisions about how and where your group will meet. Please be mindful of the accommodations and accessibility of each participant as we’ve outlined in the guidelines.
Know that your well-being and our ability to live our mission has been and will remain at the center of these decisions.
Yours in faith and in service,
Rev. Eileen Wiviott
Rev. Karen Gustafson
Sandra Robinson
Martha Holman
Jessica Tomell-Presto
Joe Romeo
Dana Deane
Cathy Deamant
Ben Kornfeld
Bridget Wild
Matthew Snowdon
Susan Comstock