Our Response to
COVID-19

Throughout the pandemic, we have followed the recommendations of public health officials. With recent changes to the CDC, Franklin County, and City of Columbus guidelines, we at First Church will work to keep all in our community safe. With “low or moderate” risk levels, we will begin to move to mask-optional for the 11 a.m. service and concerts in the sanctuary and week day events at First Church.

The Task Force, Deacons and Council still recommend mask wearing for those who are not vaccinated, or in a high-risk group. Again, if you are experiencing symptoms, coughing, sneezing, fever, not feeling well, please do not come to church and instead join us for online worship. 

Sunday Worship

9 a.m. Worship

Mask wearing will continue for this service, due to the size of space and number of young children not able to be vaccinated yet. We will continue to observe social distancing. 

11 a.m. Worship

First Church will have mask-optional for this worship service. We will remove the reserved pew ropes and allow individuals to spread out more. We ask that you observe social distancing as best you can and make use of the “reserve seat cards” if you still need more distance and space in the pew.

During the week at First Church:

Masking optional in the building.

Still call for an appointment.

Sign in and practice good hand hygiene. 

Meetings may return to in-person with advanced notice to the office. At the discretion of the convener, groups may meet at the church. All meetings must be made in advance with the church office and be on the church calendar.

We understand that this decision will be met with a variety of emotions, including celebration, grief, relief, and  anxiety. We want to be clear that it is OK to keep wearing masks. In fact, for some, it is the safest and best decision to continue to mask at church. You will see many staff and lay leaders and choir members continuing to wear masks! We encourage you to do what you need to do in order to feel safe and comfortable as we gather to worship God.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

The Covid Task Force, Deacons, Council and Staff of First Church