COVID-19 Policies
10.14.2020 Update to Alto
Big news at Alto
Tuesday night the consistory of Alto Reformed Church met and made several significant decisions. You can skim this for the decisions, but I urge you to note the “why” behind each decision.
Before we hit those decisions and the “whys”, we apologize for the video streaming trouble on Sunday. Apparently, many churches had issues with YouTube this week. The issue has been resolved and it should work this coming Sunday. If you missed the service you can use this link to view a recording of the 8am service.
DECISIONS…
1. The consistory affirmed the recommendation of the Alto 2020 Task Force, which was to continue to collaborate with the RCA conservative groups and asked them to report back in December regarding the progress of the groups. The Task Force spent many hours meeting with leaders from the EPC, EFCA, and RECA. They did not want to eliminate any of these options. All of them have strengths and weakness, but each one is a viable option. Given that RECA and other conservatives in the RCA are meeting in late November to collaborate, the unanimous recommendation of the Task Force was to remain engaged in this process. Much more will be shared at the Congregational meeting on Nov. 8.
2. The consistory elected to hold Sunday services at 8am (masks required) and 10am (masks optional) from Oct. 18 through Nov. 8 with Sunday school (masks required) from 9 to 9:45am. Masks are not required at Bible Class on Wednesday nights. Kids and youth Sunday school will start on Oct.25, see #3. Whys: I will explain this more in a video, but at the heart of all this is a deep desire to give opportunities for all people to “know Jesus and to make Jesus known” as our mission statement says. Masks are a highly divisive issue and fall under the biblical category of disputable as in Romans 14. Paul had a clear belief on eating meat offered to idols, but he chose unity and kindness over his position. Note that we will not be “mask police.” Some people have health issues preventing mask usage, that’s ok. Some kids may resist, that’s ok. Please, choose to be respectful and kind at all times.
3. The consistory decided to continue our practice and cancel in-person, indoor kids and youth programs when the Waupun schools are online. The school currently plans to return to classes on Monday Oct. 19th, so we plan to restart kids and youth programs on Monday, Oct. 19. Whys: Again, the video mentioned above applies here. Specifically, we do want to support the administrators, teachers, and parents in their efforts to keep kids in school. Temporary pauses of in-person programs is not the end of ministry, it just shifts us to some different methods.
4. The consistory also opted to hold the Congregational Meeting at 2pm Sunday Nov. 8 with masks required in the new section. We will accept signed absentee ballots Sunday morning and email ballots must be sent to [email protected] by noon on Nov. 6. We will use Zoom to enable members to watch and send questions. If we would need to take another vote, those on Zoom may be able to vote, but we are not certain of that. We do not anticipate any other major votes beyond the election of elders and deacons. We do plan on Sunday school morning of Nov. 8. Whys: There were three key reasons for this decision…
· Children can stay home with one parent who participates on Zoom. Otherwise, we typically had all the kids in a large group in the basement.
· This allows more time for the Task Force and other ministry reports.
· This allows us to have Sunday school that morning as we’ve already had to cancel some weeks.
5. The consistory also decided to hold one Thanksgiving Eve service at 7pm (masks optional) on Nov. 25 and two Christmas Eve services, one at 4pm (masks required) & the other at 7pm (masks optional) on Dec. 24. We will livestream the services and hope you will include us in your holiday celebrations.
6. The elders approved the following letter to go to the congregation regarding attendance of sex offenders at the church. There are no sex offenders currently attending Alto Reformed Church, but this is in light of the future possibility.
Dear Members of Alto Reformed Church,
As a church, we are called to make disciples, to help all people grow in faith and live as Jesus would want us to live. Early on, in 2020, our elders and staff began processing how the church should protect church attendees from abuse and allow opportunities for approved sex offenders to grow in their faith. We have seen first-hand that some who carry the label of sex offender are dangerous and should not be allowed to participate, but others must live under the label and stigma long
after Jesus has forgiven and changed them. With input from our insurance company and other churches, we have approved a policy which we believe will both protect the innocent and allow participation of offenders who are approved by the elders and chaperoned at all times. We ask that you review this policy from both the perspective of a victim of abuse and an offender longing to grow. If you have concerns, questions, or wish to serve as a chaperone, please contact an elder or pastor.
Sincerely, the elders of Alto Reformed Church
REMEMBER…
Our world is divided and angry. As followers of Jesus, we have peace. Let us rest in that peace and share it with those around us.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin
Big news at Alto
Tuesday night the consistory of Alto Reformed Church met and made several significant decisions. You can skim this for the decisions, but I urge you to note the “why” behind each decision.
Before we hit those decisions and the “whys”, we apologize for the video streaming trouble on Sunday. Apparently, many churches had issues with YouTube this week. The issue has been resolved and it should work this coming Sunday. If you missed the service you can use this link to view a recording of the 8am service.
DECISIONS…
1. The consistory affirmed the recommendation of the Alto 2020 Task Force, which was to continue to collaborate with the RCA conservative groups and asked them to report back in December regarding the progress of the groups. The Task Force spent many hours meeting with leaders from the EPC, EFCA, and RECA. They did not want to eliminate any of these options. All of them have strengths and weakness, but each one is a viable option. Given that RECA and other conservatives in the RCA are meeting in late November to collaborate, the unanimous recommendation of the Task Force was to remain engaged in this process. Much more will be shared at the Congregational meeting on Nov. 8.
2. The consistory elected to hold Sunday services at 8am (masks required) and 10am (masks optional) from Oct. 18 through Nov. 8 with Sunday school (masks required) from 9 to 9:45am. Masks are not required at Bible Class on Wednesday nights. Kids and youth Sunday school will start on Oct.25, see #3. Whys: I will explain this more in a video, but at the heart of all this is a deep desire to give opportunities for all people to “know Jesus and to make Jesus known” as our mission statement says. Masks are a highly divisive issue and fall under the biblical category of disputable as in Romans 14. Paul had a clear belief on eating meat offered to idols, but he chose unity and kindness over his position. Note that we will not be “mask police.” Some people have health issues preventing mask usage, that’s ok. Some kids may resist, that’s ok. Please, choose to be respectful and kind at all times.
3. The consistory decided to continue our practice and cancel in-person, indoor kids and youth programs when the Waupun schools are online. The school currently plans to return to classes on Monday Oct. 19th, so we plan to restart kids and youth programs on Monday, Oct. 19. Whys: Again, the video mentioned above applies here. Specifically, we do want to support the administrators, teachers, and parents in their efforts to keep kids in school. Temporary pauses of in-person programs is not the end of ministry, it just shifts us to some different methods.
4. The consistory also opted to hold the Congregational Meeting at 2pm Sunday Nov. 8 with masks required in the new section. We will accept signed absentee ballots Sunday morning and email ballots must be sent to [email protected] by noon on Nov. 6. We will use Zoom to enable members to watch and send questions. If we would need to take another vote, those on Zoom may be able to vote, but we are not certain of that. We do not anticipate any other major votes beyond the election of elders and deacons. We do plan on Sunday school morning of Nov. 8. Whys: There were three key reasons for this decision…
· Children can stay home with one parent who participates on Zoom. Otherwise, we typically had all the kids in a large group in the basement.
· This allows more time for the Task Force and other ministry reports.
· This allows us to have Sunday school that morning as we’ve already had to cancel some weeks.
5. The consistory also decided to hold one Thanksgiving Eve service at 7pm (masks optional) on Nov. 25 and two Christmas Eve services, one at 4pm (masks required) & the other at 7pm (masks optional) on Dec. 24. We will livestream the services and hope you will include us in your holiday celebrations.
6. The elders approved the following letter to go to the congregation regarding attendance of sex offenders at the church. There are no sex offenders currently attending Alto Reformed Church, but this is in light of the future possibility.
Dear Members of Alto Reformed Church,
As a church, we are called to make disciples, to help all people grow in faith and live as Jesus would want us to live. Early on, in 2020, our elders and staff began processing how the church should protect church attendees from abuse and allow opportunities for approved sex offenders to grow in their faith. We have seen first-hand that some who carry the label of sex offender are dangerous and should not be allowed to participate, but others must live under the label and stigma long
after Jesus has forgiven and changed them. With input from our insurance company and other churches, we have approved a policy which we believe will both protect the innocent and allow participation of offenders who are approved by the elders and chaperoned at all times. We ask that you review this policy from both the perspective of a victim of abuse and an offender longing to grow. If you have concerns, questions, or wish to serve as a chaperone, please contact an elder or pastor.
Sincerely, the elders of Alto Reformed Church
REMEMBER…
Our world is divided and angry. As followers of Jesus, we have peace. Let us rest in that peace and share it with those around us.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin
10/7/20 ALTO UPDATE:
The Waupun School District just announced that they will cease in-person teaching starting tomorrow. Read about it here https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSXrPUrtQFOaNg0xZYw3mhjIngtJKiFYRU2DLhC7Rzza3o1yi4h0sKiK_FABJ-QNijgAyNWpSg8Fq6D/pub
The Consistory did empower Ron and I to make necessary last-minute decisions, so we are cancelling Bible Class, youth groups, youth Bible study, and Sunday school for youth and kids through Oct. 13 when the Consistory is scheduled to meet.
We are NOT cancelling adult groups, meetings, or Sunday worship services.
We realize some of you will fully support this decision and others will not. Please understand that we are doing what seems best with the information we have and the direction of the Spirit (Acts 15:28). Join us in prayer for those who are sick and those making decisions.
Pastor Kevin
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Prov. 3:5-6)
The Waupun School District just announced that they will cease in-person teaching starting tomorrow. Read about it here https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSXrPUrtQFOaNg0xZYw3mhjIngtJKiFYRU2DLhC7Rzza3o1yi4h0sKiK_FABJ-QNijgAyNWpSg8Fq6D/pub
The Consistory did empower Ron and I to make necessary last-minute decisions, so we are cancelling Bible Class, youth groups, youth Bible study, and Sunday school for youth and kids through Oct. 13 when the Consistory is scheduled to meet.
We are NOT cancelling adult groups, meetings, or Sunday worship services.
We realize some of you will fully support this decision and others will not. Please understand that we are doing what seems best with the information we have and the direction of the Spirit (Acts 15:28). Join us in prayer for those who are sick and those making decisions.
Pastor Kevin
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Prov. 3:5-6)
9/24/20 ALTO UPDATE:We want you to grow as a disciple of Jesus. That is the heart of all we do and so we urge you to prayerfully consider what God wants you to be doing. Know that we have “Discipleship Essentials” devotional workbooks available for you to use personally, with family, or in groups. RightNow Media is loaded with incredible materials 24 - 7. As well, we are doing what we can (see below) to provide opportunities for you to grow. Please contact us if there is any way we can better support you and your family. – Pastor Kevin
We are adding an 8AM Service. The consistory decided to do a 2-week experiment with an 8AM service on Oct. 4 and 11 for those who are more cautious. The 8AM Service will require masks along with physical distancing. There will be no congregational singing. A song would likely be played or sung by a soloist at the beginning and the end. The focus will be on prayer and the sermon. If possible, videos of children’s messages will be played.
The 9:30AM Service & 10:45AM Sunday School will not change. The 9:30AM service will be streamed on YouTube. We will do communion at both services on Oct. 4.
We are making a couple updates with Children & Families’ Ministry.
Kid’s Sunday School: We will be continuing to provide the Sunday School classes with snacks in their classrooms. As we feel it is wise to continue to keep classes separate at this time, SS singing will continue to be put on hold.
Preschool Sunday School: PreK SS will be split into two groups. The 4K students will be meeting up in the Red Room and the 3's will continue to meet in the Sunbeamer Room. This change will start Sunday, October 4th.
Walk Out Worship: WOW will be put on hold through the year and will be reevaluated in January.
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Rom. 12:18)
9/9/20 ALTO UPDATE:
Life is more confusing and divisive than most of us ever experienced. Maybe some of you can remember something similar, but I can’t. The political animosity, racial violence, Covid confusion, and distrust of news sources has left us all frustrated and weary. There is hope…
While we need to engage in our culture, we cannot let the chaos and sin of the world distract us from God’s purposes. He is preparing us for heaven. He is molding us into a faithful people who neither fear death nor persecution. The church exists to encourage and equip you for that day when He returns, so I want to urge you and your family to fully engage in the church.
This week we will launch Discipleship Essentials. Join us Sunday as I introduce the series and a devotional/workbook that was foundational to me and thousands of others.
1. Kids ministries are kicking off too. The nursery is opening, Walk Out Worship (for 3-year olds – 1st grade), Sunday School, and Bible class are starting.
2. Youth ministries are prepped for a great year of growth. Check the church calendar for details.
3. Special events like the Marriage Night, The Return prayer gathering, and adult bible studies are planned as well.
We want you to grow in Christ, rest in His strength, and rejoice in the hope of heaven, so we are doing what we can to provide safe places for you and your family. Kids will only meet in small classes. The youth have moved to a much larger space and will meet around tables in smaller groups. For adults, Discipleship Essentials provides unlimited opportunities for your growth; with groups of 2-4 meeting in the sanctuary during Sunday School, a group meeting on Wednesday nights, and the possibility for you to initiate your own group.
If you wish to take greater precautions, we want to do all we can to help you grow. Our services will continue to be live on YouTube. RightNow Media is an extensive free video library with great teaching for small groups or individuals. Please contact Doug or I if you need help or have questions about other growth opportunities.
Know that the consistory has repeatedly discussed precautions and struggled to know what is best. We can’t help but see that the church, community and nation are polarized with regard to what precautions should be taken. As believers, we hold several shared convictions, such as…
· We are to trust God to protect and care for us
· We are to love our neighbors
· We are to speak truth
· We are to glorify God in all we do
· We are to focus on developing and deploying Christ-like disciples
All of these convictions shape our response.
We continue to encourage members to take appropriate precautions…
A. If you are sick or have been tested for Covid-19 and do not have the results, PLEASE STAY HOME.
B. If you are more medically vulnerable or over the age of 65, we urge you to be cautious when coming to church. We would encourage you to wear a mask, gloves, or any other form of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that you deem necessary for your safety at a worship service.
C. We ask that everyone who comes to church to please use your best judgment and decide for yourself if it is safe for you and/or your family to come to church. If you do not feel comfortable coming in person, we encourage you to watch on YouTube, the church website, or request a DVD or CD to be sent to you.
D. If you are diagnosed with Covid-19 and have been on the church property, we ask that you let the office know as soon as possible, so we can take appropriate steps.
Thank you for continuing to be gracious and kind with those who have differing views. Please pray for God to bring revival through the chaos and wisdom through the confusion.
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin
Life is more confusing and divisive than most of us ever experienced. Maybe some of you can remember something similar, but I can’t. The political animosity, racial violence, Covid confusion, and distrust of news sources has left us all frustrated and weary. There is hope…
While we need to engage in our culture, we cannot let the chaos and sin of the world distract us from God’s purposes. He is preparing us for heaven. He is molding us into a faithful people who neither fear death nor persecution. The church exists to encourage and equip you for that day when He returns, so I want to urge you and your family to fully engage in the church.
This week we will launch Discipleship Essentials. Join us Sunday as I introduce the series and a devotional/workbook that was foundational to me and thousands of others.
1. Kids ministries are kicking off too. The nursery is opening, Walk Out Worship (for 3-year olds – 1st grade), Sunday School, and Bible class are starting.
2. Youth ministries are prepped for a great year of growth. Check the church calendar for details.
3. Special events like the Marriage Night, The Return prayer gathering, and adult bible studies are planned as well.
We want you to grow in Christ, rest in His strength, and rejoice in the hope of heaven, so we are doing what we can to provide safe places for you and your family. Kids will only meet in small classes. The youth have moved to a much larger space and will meet around tables in smaller groups. For adults, Discipleship Essentials provides unlimited opportunities for your growth; with groups of 2-4 meeting in the sanctuary during Sunday School, a group meeting on Wednesday nights, and the possibility for you to initiate your own group.
If you wish to take greater precautions, we want to do all we can to help you grow. Our services will continue to be live on YouTube. RightNow Media is an extensive free video library with great teaching for small groups or individuals. Please contact Doug or I if you need help or have questions about other growth opportunities.
Know that the consistory has repeatedly discussed precautions and struggled to know what is best. We can’t help but see that the church, community and nation are polarized with regard to what precautions should be taken. As believers, we hold several shared convictions, such as…
· We are to trust God to protect and care for us
· We are to love our neighbors
· We are to speak truth
· We are to glorify God in all we do
· We are to focus on developing and deploying Christ-like disciples
All of these convictions shape our response.
We continue to encourage members to take appropriate precautions…
A. If you are sick or have been tested for Covid-19 and do not have the results, PLEASE STAY HOME.
B. If you are more medically vulnerable or over the age of 65, we urge you to be cautious when coming to church. We would encourage you to wear a mask, gloves, or any other form of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that you deem necessary for your safety at a worship service.
C. We ask that everyone who comes to church to please use your best judgment and decide for yourself if it is safe for you and/or your family to come to church. If you do not feel comfortable coming in person, we encourage you to watch on YouTube, the church website, or request a DVD or CD to be sent to you.
D. If you are diagnosed with Covid-19 and have been on the church property, we ask that you let the office know as soon as possible, so we can take appropriate steps.
Thank you for continuing to be gracious and kind with those who have differing views. Please pray for God to bring revival through the chaos and wisdom through the confusion.
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin