As of March 1, 2022, Rivermont's COVID task force has decided that masks are optional for all vaccinated members and friends of the church.
Phase 1
All Worship Services and Group Gatherings Occur Online
Public health indicators:
COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths are increasing, or remain high, in Hamilton County.
Church protocols
- The congregation holds virtual worship
- Multiple giving options (online, via phone text, and by check) are available
- Bible studies, coffee hours, social gatherings, and small group meetings are held via online video conferencing
- Pastoral care happens via telephone, or online
- Ministries of service and compassion continue
- Church buildings are closed for use except by approved staff or special services such as funerals. Special services are limited in number and held with health/safety guidelines in place
Phase 2
Limited In-Person Gatherings
Public health indicators:
Following 14 days of a consecutive decline in the number of people testing positive (new cases) for COVID-19, hospitalizations, and intensive care bed use the Session will discuss a move to Phase 2.
Church protocols:
- Small indoor church worship will take place in spaces large enough for 6 feet of physical distance to be between people.
- Based on CDC recommendations at that time, there may be further restrictions in place for the safety of all Rivermont community members.
- Online worship will continue for those who wish to worship at home.
- Some small group ministries may resume under established safety guidelines, however, online gathers still will be encouraged.
Phase 3
Moderately Limited In-Person Gatherings
Public health indicators:
When COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths have fallen to near zero and widespread testing and tracking is available, the Session will discuss a move to Phase 3.
Church protocols
- Increased number of congregants will be invited for public worship.
- Continued restrictions may be in place for the safety of all community members.
- Larger ministry groups will resume, and the nursery and Sunday School will reopen under established safety guidelines.
Phase 4
Unlimited In-Person Gatherings with Some Protections
Public health indicators:
When a vaccine has been developed and is available to all in the general public, or a treatment of proven effectiveness is widely available along with widespread testing, the Session will discuss a move to Phase 4.
Church protocols
- There will be no limit to the number of worshipers who may attend services, except that those who are known to be infectious, actively sick, or who display any of the symptoms of being ill should not attend.
- Small group and large group church gathering practices may return with limited to no restrictions.