Returning to In-Person Worship

Hi <<First Name>>,

Throughout the past few weeks, members of our church family have been working diligently to prepare for a return to in-person worship on campus. As previously noted, a number of things needed to fall into place to make this possible. Each of these requirements have been met, except one: Due to delays with the manufacturer, we do not expect to receive the electrostatic mist sprayer before Sunday, July 5th.

Since we are unable to disinfect pews between worship services, we will only offer one in-person worship opportunity on Sunday, July 5th at 10am. It will, however, be streamed live at gdshp.ch/online.

If you would like to join in worship in person on Sunday, July 5th at 10am:

• Please register at gdshp.ch/RegJuly5 beginning Monday, June 29th at 9am. Those unable to register online are welcome to call 562/493.2553 x200. Registration will close Wednesday, July 1st at 10pm so that staff can begin arranging seating for Sunday. If we are able to honor your registration request, you will receive a confirmation by Friday evening. (There are no conditions for reserving a seat!)

• It is possible that not everyone who wants to attend will be able to attend! Due to physical distancing guidelines, we are currently limited to 100 people in the Sanctuary and around 50 in Zirbel Hall. As such, if you would prefer to wait until we have our cleaning supplies and can accommodate multiple services, join us online at 10am at gdshp.ch/online.

• Physical distancing, face masks, and temperature checks will be required.

• At this time, we are unable to gather for coffee, in Bible Study, or children's classes (though, as always, kids are welcome in the service!). For the time being, we will offer a worship service only.

We recognize that as a result of gradual reopening, both Los Angeles and Orange counties are experiencing significant increases in COVID-19 cases. As a result, at any time, we may again be unable to gather in person if reopening efforts are scaled back. We are committed to continue abiding by Centers for Disease Control and local guidelines for reopening.

Remember Jesus’ words to the Samaritan woman in John 4: Our location does not determine our love for the Lord. True worship is a matter of Spirit and truth! True worship is a matter of the heart (see especially verses 21-24)!

So, you can worship in person, if you feel safe enough to do so - or you can worship from within the security of your own home at gdshp.ch/online!

Grace and peace be with you,
Pastor Curtis