We are a resurrection people, living faithfully in hope and belief in God who is making all things new. No pandemic will ever stop the people of Jesus Christ from expressing the merciful, hope-filled, life-changing truth of God’s healing love.”
—The Rt Rev Kevin S. Brown, XI Bishop of Delaware

The Episcopal Church of Saints Andrew and Matthew will prayerfully consider re-gathering when the State of Delaware and the CDC determines it is safe to do so. We want to take this time to let you know how we are preparing for your return. This plan has been approved by the New Normal Task Force of the Diocese of Delaware.

What to expect when we re-gather:

• We will post our re-gathering guidelines on this website, FaceBook, and email blasts; and we will send regular weekly mailings to our parishioners and friends who do not have internet access.
• We will use a reservation system for all in-person gatherings.
• Our ushers, greeters and meeting leaders will be trained on the protocols of social distancing and management of capacity seating.
• We will use a special sanitizing and disinfecting system for sanctuary, narthex, kitchen, elevator, bathrooms, Crypt Hall, auditorium, Demby Lounge, and Chapel.
• Hand sanitizing stations will be installed at all entrances with appropriate signage.

General Building Use

• We will professionally sanitize and disinfect our space before we schedule in-person service or open our building for use.
• All spaces will be reserved in advance with cleaning before and after each meeting.

Worship

• We will have one Sunday service.
• All spaces will be reserved in advance, on line, using our reservation system or by phone.
• Every other pew will be utilized with safe-distancing markings. Families may sit together.
• Reserved seating will be released 10 minutes after the service begins.
• Ushers will welcome last minute guests as space allows.
• Masks will be available for those who arrive without proper face covering. Admission will be denied to those who refuse face covering.
• We will safeguard communion.
• The celebrant will sanitize hands before offering the bread.
• Ushers will guide parishioners in single file from the pew to the altar in a socially-distanced line.
• Bread will be offered, but no wine.
• Parishioners will return to their seats to consume the bread.
• At the end of service, parishioners will be guided in a single file maintaining social distancing, row by row to the exit.
• We will then go forth into the world in the name of Christ, to love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit.

In The Meantime…

Our building may be closed but we are busier than ever! Just take a look at last Friday’s email blast or click here to visit the events page of our website.