As COVID-19 (the new coronavirus) spreads globally, we know it is prudent to take measures to maintain a safe and healthy community especially within our church building. The Executive Team has begun discussions of what measures we might need to take as a congregation to respond to the spread of COVID-19 and any potential confirmed cases in our area.

Please check the Vermont Department of Health for up-to-date information.

Right now, the best thing we can do is practice the same preventative care measures we would use to stop the spread of other germs and viruses.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve (i.e. elbow), not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

A group of volunteers has taken on the task of regularly disinfecting frequently touched surfaces at church such as door handles, hand rails, faucets, etc.

When you are attending events at church, you can greet others without touching.

The Fireplace Room next to the Vestry is available for viewing and listening to the Sunday service should you wish to be in a less crowded environment.

If you are sick, please stay home for the sake of others, especially those most vulnerable to communicable illnesses. (If you need support with groceries, meals, etc. while you are home sick, please contact the UCM Caring Network.)

If you have traveled outside of Vermont recently, especially internationally, please monitor your own health and refrain from participating in church events if you are at risk.

Our Monday Community Lunch volunteers already engage in food safety practices that ensure a high degree of safety in preparation and serving.

We will continue to monitor the presence of COVID-19 in the area and will take further measures as necessary to ensure public health.

If you have any concerns or suggestions, please contact the UCM Executive Team.