In May 2020, Saint Matthew formed a Task Force to advise Council about COVID and compliance with the various governmental guidelines coming out weekly. Optimistically, it was named the Reopening Task Force.
Slowly, conditions improved, restrictions were relaxed or lifted, and Saint Matthew did reopen, partially at first, and now virtually completely.
The Task Force’s final recommendations were given to Council at the May meeting, including the recommendation to discontinue the Task Force. Other recommendations are to drop masking requirements at all worship services (masks are always optional), to also drop social distancing recommendations for the NE corner of the Sanctuary, to let the Worship and Music Ministry decide how the offering is to be taken, and to make masking by those administering Communion optional.
Participating in the Task Force were Pastor Eric Trozzo, Kristine Butler, Steve Cathcart, Chris Cassel, Diane Gilum Gadomski, Dave Harp, Deacon Bill Lawrence, Pastor Peggy Marks, and John O’Meara. Thanks to all of the Task Force members for their time and efforts, and for contributing common sense and good humor when they were needed.
—John O’Meara, Chair