Update June 3: Minneapolis mayor has lifted the mask mandate, and so we are no longer requiring face coverings at Sunday Worship.

Dear Restoration,

I’m writing to give you a quick update on Restoration’s health and safety protocols in light of national and local changes to Covid-19 restrictions. These changes impact Sunday Worship and other events.

Governor Walz recently announced loosened restrictions in the Minnesota Stay Safe plan, which will take full effect soon. Changes at the federal and municipal level complicate things a bit. The CDC has rolled out new mask guidelines stating that those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks indoors, however, the city of Minneapolis is keeping the mask mandate for the time being. Overall, I am encouraged to see progress towards normalcy.

In light of the updated restrictions which come into full effect on Wednesday, May 27th, we plan on the following changes:

May 30 Changes for Sunday Worship

One service at 10am.
No registration.
No seating restrictions per Minnesota Stay Safe plan.
Masks still required at Parkway Theater per Minneapolis mandate.
- Jun 3 Update: Mask mandate has been lifted, and are now optional.
Masks optional at outdoor events.

Jul 4 changes for Outdoor Worship

One service at 10am
No registration or distancing required.
Masks optional outdoors.
“Livestream Lite.”
- Due to the challenges of being outside, livestream will be temporarily simplified.
- Fewer camera angles and no on-screen liturgy.
- No “spiritual communion” liturgy.
In the event of rain, outdoor services will be cancelled.
- We will notify via email and text of any last minute decisions.
- We are still working on alternative solutions.
Liturgical changes to expect throughout the summer, depending on volunteer availability.
- Return of more music.
- Return of Prayer Ministry.
- Return of Communion in both bread and wine/juice.

Fall changes for Indoor Worship

One service at 10am
No registration or distancing required.
Livestream’s full features returned.
- We will reassess the Livestream ministry in May 2022.
We will announce additional details as we get closer, but we anticipate more good news.

Throughout this pandemic, I have been extremely proud of the Christian charity our congregation has exhibited towards one another, especially in the midst of different opinions. Thankfully, things are returning to a semblance of normalcy, which I know we are all excited about. Just as it took time for us to learn how to adjust to new health precautions a year ago, may we now be patient with one another as we get used to the relaxed precautions.

The great news is that very soon on July 4th, we will all be outside and begin the journey of rebuilding our ministries and regathering our community!

Blessings to you all!

Peace,
Father Rick