RUTLAND—Grace Congregational UCC has announced it is reopening for worship as of June 28. The church council voted at its June 15 meeting to begin reopening the church in a phased manner, an approach designed to provide sufficient opportunity to operate first in a low density and low contact environment before making the incremental changes needed to accommodate more moderate density activity while continuing to maintain health and safety.
Small church groups began meeting on the church grounds as of June 17, with groups limited to 25 people. Social distancing will be required, as will the wearing of a mask or face shield for everyone’s protection. A cleaning protocol is in place which meets Vermont state standards, and rooms will be cleaned between meetings.
Worship will resume in the sanctuary starting on June 28 at 10 a.m. All are welcome with a mask or other suitable face covering required. Social distancing will be maintained while in the pews. Rev. Holly Ross Noble, interim minister, will be preaching, with music provided by Minister of Music Alastair Stout.
“This will be a joyous occasion as it is the first time in over three months that Grace has held in-person worship services,” the Church stated in a news release.
Worship services will still be available online at gracechurchvt.org, on Facebook @gracechurchvt, and channel 1075 on PEGTV Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Grace Church is located at 8 Court St. in Rutland.
