City Church Plans for Phased Re-Opening

Dear City Church Family,

As you are likely aware, last week Governor Northam announced Phase One of easing the restrictions that were put in place across Virginia back in March. That easing is set to begin tomorrow, Friday, May 15th. Some of the relaxed restrictions relate to churches, specifically. Over the last week there has been lots of  conversation around re-opening various sectors of the economy and public life. It remains uncertain whether Richmond City will begin Phase One alongside the rest of the region.  

In response to this changing landscape, City Church has created a Phased Re-Opening Task Force that will advise our leadership on when and how to resume our gathered community life. For at least the next few Sundays we will continue to provide Home Worship Guides for Sunday Worship. We hope to be able to resume gathered worship at Grace Covenant at some point in June, although that hope depends on a number of variables—including public health trends and other guidelines—some of which are outside of our control. Should we resume gathered worship we will continue to provide an at-home alternative for those who can’t return, or don’t want to return, to large gatherings right away.

We very much feel the challenge of proceeding wisely in our ongoing care for the people of City Church. All of our planning will continue to be guided by twin priorities: 1) the physical safety and well-being of all in our community and 2) the spiritual care and nurture of all in our community, especially through gathered Sunday worship. 

The Phased Re-Opening Task Force is composed of: Adam Bailey, Erik Bonkovsky, David Boyce, Cara Campbell, Liza Clark, Mack Hendrix, Stefan Kling, Jennifer Murphy, and Caitlin Wise. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to any of us directly. 

Stay Well & Do Good,

Erik