Dear Resurrection,

Two weeks ago I hardly knew anyone who had COVID-19. Now I know of at least a dozen people, including some of my best friends. Cases are spiking across the country, but they’re also hitting our church family. It can seem frightening and disorienting. And yet, back in March, Bishop Stewart called us to remember Psalm 46 (“God is our refuge and strength…). Then this fall Dean Steve asked us to focus on Psalm 126 (“Those who sow in tears, will reap with shouts of joy”). Truly, our God is worthy of our deepest trust and worship, even in challenging times.

In light of COVID-19 diagnoses among our staff and clergy, and our decision to suspend in-person services for last Sunday only, we want to address the questions you may have as we move forward.

Who on Rez staff has COVID-19? How sick are they?
Bp. Stewart Ruch, Fr. Steve Williamson, Fr. Brett Crull, and two non-clergy staff all contracted COVID-19. They all have had mild cases, limited to typical flu-like symptoms, and are recovering well at home. A few additional people within their households or bubbles have also become ill (also with mild symptoms), but we are not aware of any further spread.

How did they catch it?
Each of these people contracted COVID-19 through extended close contact with others in their bubbles, most likely through shared meals or driving in the same vehicle to Revive events in Minnesota and/or Chicago.

So what lessons have we learned?
We’ve learned that our safety protocols are working! Bp. Stewart and Fr. Steve conducted services and served Eucharist to many in our congregation, and no one got sick. Our biggest vulnerabilities are in our “bubbles.” Our general protocol for the congregation as a whole seems to be very effective. 

Were any leaders feeling sick on All Saints Sunday?
No, Bp. Stewart and Fr. Steve did not learn that they had been exposed to COVID-19 until AFTER All Saints Sunday. Fr. Brett knew about his direct exposure to COVID-19 and stayed home.

Will you let me know if I’m around someone at a service who’s sick?
Yes! As soon as we learned of Bp. Stewart’s illness, we communicated with everyone who had attended the services at which he served communion. Similarly, when we learn of congregants who attend services shortly before becoming ill, we make sure anyone they sat with is also notified.

So is anything changing for Rez?
In short, no. We will continue to follow our established safety protocols and monitor closely how things progress in our area. In-person services will resume this Sunday, and you can sign up and review safety protocols here.

What about Tier 2 restrictions and rising Illinois cases?
We track the COVID situation in our area very closely, with the goal of being together as much as we safely can. Gathering for worship is vital to our spiritual health. Tier 2 restrictions place no limitations on churches/houses of worship. We will continue to gather on Sundays and adhere to our established safety protocols. The RezGroup leadership team has provided additional guidance for RezGroup leaders.

What if someone I’ve been in close contact with is awaiting a COVID test result, or someone in my bubble has COVID-like symptoms—should I come to service? 
Please care for yourself and others, stay home and come back when you and your bubble are in the clear.

If I have questions about Rez’s policies/procedures, who do I contact?
Please reach out to Anne Kessler, our Executive Director of Operations.

If I have COVID or know someone in the congregation with COVID, what should I do?
Connect with any staff member you know, or contact Pastoral Care Pastor Meghan Robins.

This Sunday, we feel confident that we can safely resume Sunday morning services, both in-person and livestream. We hope you can sign-up and join us for worship! However, we want to bless you as you make the decisions that are best for your family or situation.

Peace to you,

Fr. Matt Woodley
Cathedral Vicar