As you are likely aware, Kentucky and Lexington are both in the midst of a surge in COVID-19 cases. Kentucky reported its highest case count ever on Friday of 3,825 new cases, with Fayette County reporting 297 cases. The positivity rate in Fayette County is currently 12 percent, and Fayette County is considered a “red county,” meaning we find ourselves in a critical time, with an average daily case count of 61.1 cases per 100,000 residents.

Our first priority is always the safety of you and your family.  You may have heard that Governor Beshear has recommended that congregations consider returning to digital services during this surge. The Healthy at Church Task Force takes such a recommendation very seriously. As such, the Task Force has considered that recommendation, as well as best practices from health care professionals.

We believe our outdoor, drive-in model of worship is very resilient and safe. Though our congregation has had instances of members contracting COVID-19, we are unaware of any transmission occurring at South Elkhorn worship or other events.  That said, we are mindful of the critical situation our community finds itself in concerning the virus, and want to take all reasonable steps to ensure everyone’s safety.

The Healthy at Church Task Force has recommended, and the Executive Team on behalf of the Cabinet has approved, certain changes to our Healthy at Church Guidelines. We are recommending that outdoor worship be permitted to continue at this time. However, please be advised of the following changes, effective immediately and continuing through December 13:

• • • • Mask usage is required for anyone attending our worship in person.  Please help us model Christian love by protecting yourself and others by wearing a mask.  You are not required to wear a mask if you remain in your personal vehicle with your windows up.

      • We strongly encourage everyone attending worship services to remain in their vehicle.  If you choose to leave your vehicle, please wear a mask.

      • Consider wearing a mask when interacting with South Elkhorn staff and volunteers, even when in your vehicle.

      • Please maintain social distance at all times from anyone not residing in your household.

      • We will not be distributing materials prior to or during worship.  This includes bulletins/programs and children’s bags.  Digital bulletins are available in the weekly and on the church website.

      • We will be limiting the number of volunteers who help with set up, take-down, and assisting during service for the protection of the health of our volunteers.

      • If you are dropping off tithes or offerings to our Deacon volunteers, please limit your conversation and keep as much space as possiblefor your protection and theirs.

If you feel uncomfortable attending our outdoor services, please consider participating via digital means.  Our services are streamed on Facebook Live every Sunday.  A link can be found on South Elkhorn’s Facebook page.

We deeply appreciate the commitment our community of faith has shown during these trying times.  Thank you for all you do to keep our members, guests, staff, and volunteers safe.  If you have any questions regarding these new restrictions, or any of our Healthy at Church Guidelines, please reach out to the Task Force by emailing healthy@southelkhorncc.org.