Bishop Duncan-Probe announces next step in diocesan COVID-19 response

Dear friends,

Since the COVID-19 crisis began over 15 months ago, our congregations have walked together hand-in-hand. We have covenanted together: promising to protect the vulnerable, to extend Christian hospitality, and to seek God’s transforming love in changing circumstances.

We have learned so much over this past year, and guided by our shared values, we are now ready to take the next step in our journey together. Beginning Saturday, June 19, 2021, each congregation will have local discretion to establish COVID-19 response guidelines within the restrictions established by New York State and in line with recommendations from the CDC.

I trust our parish leaders and the faithful people of this diocese. I believe that parish leaders will make decisions that reflect our shared commitment to the safety and well-being of all by responding faithfully to the realities of the local congregation and community. Protection of the most vulnerable and connection with those unable to attend worship and church activities in-person remain our priority.

The Diocese will continue to provide resources to assist parish leaders in making decisions at:  cnyepiscopal.org/covid-19.

In this Diocese, we have not had a single COVID-19 spreader event. I am deeply grateful to every Episcopalian, especially our vestry leaders and clergy, for your tender care of God’s children through this crisis. Together, may we continue to act in ways consistent with our vision of “a world healed by love.”

Blessings of peace for the journey,