Updated Policy on Vaccinated-Only Sections

“We will respect the disease and give thanks to God for the gift of science.”  

– Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, Presiding Bishop of the ELCA

We celebrate the science and labor that has brought us multiple highly effective vaccines against COVID-19. This is great news!  As more people are able and willing to get vaccinated, we look forward to the growing ability to gather and connect in-person. Until the community and region at large is able to socialize more freely, we will limit the scope and use of Vaccinated-Only Sections and continue to practice safe protocols on our property. 

How we will verify vaccination status:

If you are fully vaccinated, you may choose to share proof of vaccination with a member of our staff or the Vaccinated-Only Section Host.  We encourage you to pre-verify before events, by contacting the church office or member of our staff directly. This will make it easier for us to check you in at events.  

Children under the age of 5 do not need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test in order to be admitted to the vaccinated section when accompanied by a vaccinated adult. Children between the ages of 5 and 15 who can provide proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of admission, are also allowed in the vaccinated section. Children aged 12-15 may either show proof of vaccination or proof of a negative test 72 hours prior to admission.

How we will use “Vaccinated-Only Sections”:

These areas will be well-marked and available when a host can be present to check you in.  The host will either find your name on the pre-verified list or view your verification and add you to the list for future use. When you are not in a Vaccinated-Only section, please continue to wear a mask and distance. 

How we are limiting the size of Vaccinated-Only Sections”:

The size of Vaccinated-Only Sections is limited to 75% of room capacity, unless the entire room is a Vaccinated-Only Section. Please help us prioritize event presenters, volunteers, caregivers, elders, and others with special needs.  This may mean offering up your seat voluntarily and moving to a seat that is outside of the Vaccinated-Only Section.

Protocols in the rest of the building:

In all common areas of the building masking and distancing are still required.  The only areas not considered “common” are those that have been explicitly designated as such by church staff, such as private office areas or approved Vaccinated-Only Section. 

As we experiment with opening up more, our staff may choose to offer food and beverages inside at a gathering when it does not pose a barrier to inclusion or increased public health risk. In such cases, the area where food may be consumed will be clearly articulated and you may remove your mask to eat.  Please put your mask back on when you are no longer eating and when you leave the area where food is being served. 

To find a vaccination location near you visit Vaccinate WA.  For COVID-19 Information Hotline, dial 1-833-VAX-HELP (833-829-4357), then press #. Language assistance is available.