Despite the rise in COVID-19 cases almost everywhere, our churches continue to weather the waves and surges with resilience and compassion. We are continually impressed by their emphasis on safety, and we applaud all the congregations that remain vigilant in protecting our most vulnerable, especially the children among us.

Roland Park Presbyterian Church has implemented a creative system to help their guests stay safe amid these turbulent times. Since everyone’s comfort-level is different when it comes to proximity to others, they are using colored wristbands (or stickers) to acknowledge guests desire to distance while allowing closer interactions among others who may be less susceptible and so inclined.

Pastor Mark Hanna got the idea from a Facebook group, Spiritual and Communal Responses to Covid-19, and Roland Park Presbyterian adapted it to work within their sanctuary. Here is another site with a similar idea).

It has been helpful for churches to set up and maintain boundaries if we return to in person worship. It gives us pause to respect each other and consider how folks are most comfortable being greeted. Although it’s always good to keep this in mind, it’s especially vital in the midst of this crisis.