Dear Westminster,

You may have seen our governor’s recommendation that churches can reopen May 30th, with 25% capacity. At the same time we’ve received guidance from the UUA that we begin planning for virtual operations for the next year (through May 2021).

There’s a lot to consider. While the governor must make decisions based on acceptable risk and pressure from constituents, we must make decisions based on values, principles and the safety of our congregation.

The Board of Trustees is creating a task force called the Bridge Team to consider the issues and to find the safest and wisest path forward for us. We want to ensure that whatever plan we come up with prioritizes the safety of the congregation, as well as any people or groups who enter our buildings. We want to make sure we protect the most vulnerable.

Addressing these questions will take some time.

In the meantime, the Board has voted to continue online worship online during the summer. Other questions around re-opening will be addressed by the Bridge Team who will make recommendations to the Board.

Whatever the specifics of our path forward, whenever and however we gather, we have confidence we will continue to “be the church” in ways that live our mission, and express our values from the heart.

We thank you for your patience as we address these challenging questions.

Please be well,

Rev. Ellen – Minister

Amy Abel – President