As most of you know, on May 22 the Federal Government declared houses of worship ‘essential,’ requesting governors to let them reopen. In many ways this news articulates our aspirations as a Church and our hopes as a congregation.
The Ministers, Staff, and Executive Committee want you to know that we have initiated a task force to develop a reopening plan. We are aware that it is a great responsibility to begin the process with an abundance of caution and safety.
As you would expect in this plan we will be committed to nurturing love, faith, and fellowship across generations and traditions. We will also be mindful and guided by the recommendations of the CDC and other health agencies as well as our local officials, specifically the outlines for phased reopening in our region of Illinois. Our primary responsibility is to the health and safety of our Ministers, Staff, and Church Members.
There are many aspects to this expansive plan including Worship, Music, Children and Family Ministry, AJN Preschool, Youth Ministry, small groups like Men’s Coffee, etc., and the physical plant of the building—Sanctuary, offices, library, classrooms, restrooms, etc. The considerations are wide ranging, and need to be integrated into a holistic plan, and then shared with you the members of the congregation.
One thing we have learned in this quarantine period of COVID-19 is that the Church is not and never has been bound by the physical building: our faith community flourishes in inspiring and relevant ways now more than ever.
We are moving with speed to address this need and will continually update you with our plans to re-open Kenilworth Union Church. In the meantime, the building remains closed with the exception of staff. We will advise you when it is safe for certain activities to return. Also please continue to take advantage of all of the virtual Church resources at your disposal and reach out if you have questions.
We appreciate your prayers, support, and patience during these difficult times. Christ’s love has never been more needed or more present than it is today.