St Jacob of Alaska Orthodox Church

Great news!  The VT health Dept and Gov. Scott have lifted most of the pandemic restrictions.  Our Metropolitan has instructed us to follow local health authorities along with our own parish council’s input.  In light of this development these are the new guidelines for our parish:

1. Masks are optional.  Anyone who wishes may continue to wear a mask with everyone’s full support.  As per the VT guidelines, those who have not been vaccinated are strongly encouraged to continue to wear masks and practice distancing as much as practical.  Their reason for this is that there is a chance that the unvaccinated can possibly carry the virus to our more vulnerable members.  

2.  For the time being we will continue to use separate spoons for Holy Communion.  In the near future we will resume use of the single spoon.  The single spoon has been in use for many centuries.

3. For the time being we will continue to have our coffee hour/ meal outdoors (weather permitting).

These new guidelines will enable us to gradually return to our normal parish routines.  We can give thanks to our good Lord that we have made it this far.  And we pray for those who are not in so fortunate a position.

In Christ,

Fr. Mark

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In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.   O God Almighty, Lord of heaven and earth, and of all creation visible and invisible, in your ineffable goodness, look down upon us, your people gathered in your Holy Name.  Be our helper and defender in this day of affliction. You know our weakness.  You hear our cry in repentance and contrition of heart.  O Lord, who loves humankind, deliver us from the impending threat of the Coronavirus. Send your angel to watch over us and protect us. Grant health and recovery to those suffering from the virus. Guide the hands of physicians, and preserve those who are healthy.  Enable us to continue to serve our suffering brothers and sisters in peace, that together we may glorify your most honorable and majestic name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages.

Amen.