Coronavirus Response

In light of the growing concerns related to the spread of coronavirus, we wanted to create a place to share information, updates, and provide care for the Trinity Grace Church community. We have consulted with members of our church who work in healthcare and public health and are grateful for their helpful guidance.

Last updated: Friday, March 6 (3pm EST)

INTRODUCTION

Since the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has become more widespread and cases have increased both in the United States and most recently in New York City, we have been monitoring communications from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH).  The CDC anticipates that there will be additional cases and undoubtedly this has heightened concerns of potential community spread and community disruption.

At this time, it is important to listen to facts and not respond to fear. A novel virus outbreak can be scary and anxiety-inducing, and unfortunately the 24-hour news cycle (not to mention unvetted information being shared on social media) can sometimes play up that fear out of proportion. We encourage everyone to get their information from reputable healthcare sources such as the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the NYC Department of Health.

Despite our first confirmed cases, New Yorkers generally remain at low risk for contracting the virus. Furthermore, while the outbreak is a serious public health concern, the majority of those who contract the coronavirus do not become seriously ill, and only a small percentage require intensive care.

PREVENTATIVE STEPS

By following some basic steps, you can help reduce your risk and do your part to protect others. In an effort to mitigate the risk of infection, we strongly urge everyone to adopt the following preventative measures recommended by the CDC.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in a lined-trash receptacle.  If you don’t have a tissue available sneeze or cough into your arm or clothing, not your hand.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

  • When you are sick, seek treatment from healthcare providers and stay home.

  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available.

  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a face mask. Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others.  The use of face masks is crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in healthcare facilities).

DOING OUR PART AT CHURCH

We have every intention of continuing to gather in all the ways we normally do throughout this time. However, the developments have brought a sense of urgency to make sure Trinity Grace maintains a healthy environment for our congregation. It is prudent that we take some measures to strengthen and communicate our commitment to that end.

  • Keeping Hands Clean:  We are adding signage around our meeting space to remind members to wash their hands regularly. We are also making sure the restrooms are continuously stocked with soap and paper towels and are placing hand sanitizer at the Coffee Bar and in the back of the Auditorium.

  • Children’s Ministry:  While it is our longstanding practice, we have emphasized to our Children’s Ministry team the importance of sanitizing each child’s hands upon check-in, after any trip to the bathroom, and again before snack time. We will continue to wipe down all surfaces and supplies in the rooms with anti-bacterial wipes as well.

  • Greeting One Another:  For the time being, when it comes to greeting each other (whether in the Lobby, Auditorium, etc.), we are encouraging our congregation to wave or greet one another with a smile (or a peace sign!). Elbow greeting is also an option. This helps anyone who is uncomfortable avoid the pressure of having to shake hands. We want to make it clear that we all have the freedom to say something to the effect of, “I’m not hugging at the moment.” Additionally, we want to encourage everyone to ask permission if they want to greet someone with a hug. If someone responds “no” please take no offense as this is an appropriate response.

  • Communion:  We plan to continue to serve communion every week as is our practice. However, we will be switching temporarily to crackers only rather than tearing the bread. We will continue to review our practice regarding communion week by week.

  • Prayer Ministry:  During the prayer time in our gatherings, we will have hand sanitizer visibly available. We are also encouraging our prayer team to place their hands on shoulders as they pray for people.

Taking our cues from public health officials, we will continue to update our protocols as the situation evolves, and communicate about any impact to our church family.

HELPFUL RESOURCES

PASTORAL CARE

We believe that even in the midst of global challenges like this, God is present with us. Let us be in prayer for those affected around the world and for the vulnerable among us. As we pray, let’s remember not only the sick but pray also against the fear and anxiety that can afflict us as well. Let’s check-in on and support one another in the weeks ahead.

If you are in need of care, whether due to illness in your family or a heightened level of anxiety as it relates to this situation, send us an email at care@trinitygracechurch.com.

Armistead Booker

I’m a visual storyteller, nonprofit champion, moonlighting superhero, proud father, and a great listener.