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March 30, 2021March 30, 2021
St. John Climacus
My Beloved concelebrants in the Lord, esteemed Parish Council Presidents and members, Philoptochos Presidents and members, Revered Monastics and faithful,
I greet you my beloved with love and joy as we approach the mid-point of our Lenten Journey to Pascha!
My mind goes back to where we were last year at the 3rd Sunday of Lent. It was a sad day, as it was the first Sunday in which our parishes were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is such a blessing—one year later—that we are able to worship safely in our parish homes.
I wanted to thank you, the clergy and parish councils, who have worked together so diligently and devotedly in helping the faithful through this most difficult time this past year. I am reminded of Saint Paul’s words to the Romans “we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Rom. 5:2-5).
With this in mind, I invite all Clergy and Parish Council Presidents (or in their absence a representative) to a webinar meeting to answer your questions about changes to the COVID Guidelines enclosed below. Please join us on Tuesday, April 6 at 11am EST. In preparation, to join the webinar, please register by clicking this bolded and highlighted link. Once you have registered, your confirmation email will ask for any questions you may have to be sent to our Chancellor, Fr. George Tsahakis. To ensure your advance questions are answered please submit by Friday, April 2nd by 5pm.
Following the meeting, any additional changes and updates to the guidelines will be sent to all the Clergy and Parish Council Presidents.
In anticipation of some questions that have already been asked, here are some adjustments to our current guidelines for Church Services and attendance.
Temperature Checks- Consistent messaging from both the Church and from outside sources has taught us that we should stay home if we do not feel well. For the most part, people have been vigilant and have adhered to this message. Since there have been little or no people turned away due to a high temperature, the practice of temperature checks before coming into church can be discontinued.
- Masks are to continue to be worn by those who are attending services with the momentary removal of the mask just before receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion.
Physical Distancing- While the CDC has approved a three-foot distance for children in schools, it has not yet adopted that practice for adults; therefore, at this time, we will continue to observe the current physical distancing requirements until such time when they are lifted. Distancing requirements may vary from state to state, so please keep this in mind.
Ecclesiastical Items- Items that are distributed in Church (Candles, Antidoron, Artoclasia, Koliva, Palms, Flowers, Eggs, etc.) may be handed out, by the clergy and or another designated layperson or Altar Server. A mask and gloves are to be worn during distribution.
- The practice of offering Antidoron following the reception of Holy Communion can be restored by having a dedicated layperson or Altar Server distribute it while wearing a mask and gloves.
Books and Handouts- Sunday Bulletins may be distributed by an individual wearing mask and gloves. Books may also be returned to the pews and will continue to be sanitized between services.
Chanters and Choirs- Multiple chanters at one chant stand may resume so long as all face forward and are properly distanced from the congregation. Masks are required when not chanting.
- Choirs may resume with masks as spacing may not be adequate to accommodate everyone. However, if masks are removed, then COVID spacing guidelines should be adhered to. Attention should be paid on spacing so that none of the Choir members face the congregation or each other. Choir Directors should not stand in front of the choir, facing them. Mask are required when not singing.
As more and more people are vaccinated and we begin to return to normal, I share with you a quote from Dr. Vicki Pappas who is a former director of the National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians. She says, “Wear a mask, wash your hands, stay physically distant, but socially connected!”
When we are in need of God’s abundant Divine Grace, we know that He does not abandon us. Let us look to the hymn from the Great Compline for inspiration, strength and hope: “Lord of the Powers, be with us; for in times of distress, we have no other help but You. Lord of the Powers, have mercy on us.”
Praying for a fruitful and continued journey in Great Lent, I remain,
Paternally yours with love and blessings,
+ A L E X I O S
Metropolitan of Atlanta
