After asking the congregation for their opinions, it seem the comfort level with respect to the use of the chalice is about 50/50. We are not ready to remove masks, nor are we ready to go back to kneeling at the Communion Rail.
Starting this Sunday, July 3, and hopefully throughout the summer at least, we are going to reintroduce the Common Cup.
A chalice bearer will stand on either side of Rev. Elizabeth at the Communion Rail. If you chose to receive the wine from the common cup you simply go to the chalice bearer, receive the wine, and then return to your seat.
NOTE: Intinction, or dipping the wafer into the wine, is not permitted. Respiratory droplets and other germs commonly found on hands and fingers, still remain the highest risk for spreading Covid or any other germ or virus and these germs end up in the wine from your hands/fingers.
If you choose not to partake of the common cup, that is absolutely fine, you can simply receive the bread and return to your seat, as we have been doing through most of the pandemic.
If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to Rev. Elizabeth or the Wardens.