August 12th, 2020

Dear Beloved UUFRC Community,

This is an update from the Board’s last message about closure of our building during this time of shelter in place orders.

We are extending the building closure until at least May 2021, aligned with the recommendation from the Unitarian Universalist Association for congregational gatherings. Please take a moment to acknowledge this loss. We are saddened to take this action as it means more time away from each other physically. We believe it is in the best interest of our community at large.

The Board has established a COVID-19 Task Force to advise on how UUFRC will best respond to the continuing threat of the spread of the pandemic. This group is chaired by board member Polly Ragusa and includes Reverend Brian, Graham Abra, MD & Steve Hill (board members), Derby Davidson (RE), John Cooney (Building Committee), and Ellen Hill (Program Council).

The purpose of the task force is to keep our community and others safe and healthy within the parameters of COVID-19. This will include documenting, communicating and monitoring the requirements and guidelines for building use – including Open Gate Nursery School, our staff and the other uses of the building by the Fellowship. We may be able to open the building earlier for limited use by small groups consistent with, and possibly more restrictive than county and state guidelines.

We have respect for the interdependent web in which we live and therefore recognize our obligation to ensure the safety of all individuals in the Fellowship, those we live with and our community at large. This pandemic is disproportionately affecting marginalized and vulnerable communities. Limiting viral transmission in all ways we can is a key part to help minimize this.

We do not take these decisions lightly and hope you will understand we are coming from a place of concern and love in order to best protect our congregation and community through this uncertain time.

The task force is intended to be a long-term group and will update the Fellowship on a regular basis. If you have questions or concerns, please direct them to Polly Ragusa (pollyragusa@gmail.com)

Sincerely,

Chris Stovall, President, Board of Trustees
Polly Ragusa, Leader, COVID-19 Task Force