March 8, 2020

Dear Orchard Family,

With trust in our Heavenly Father, our Healer and Protector and after reviewing the most current guidance from both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Santa Clara County Health Department, the Elders and Pastors will be taking the following steps:

Children’s Programs

Nursery and CE Staff will spend extra time cleaning toys and contact surfaces. We are having the kids wash their hands before entering class and before snack time. We also have hand sanitizer for their use throughout the morning.  

On Sunday 

There will be hand sanitizer in the Foyer.  We will not be providing name tags.  This prevents transmission of germs through shared pens.

Forerunners will not hand out bulletins at worship service. There will be a small supply of bulletins laid out on the table (not in a pile) in the Foyer for those who want to take one with a notice: "Please help yourself to an OVCC Bulletin."

We will not be passing the offering bags in the service.  A box labeled “Please deposit your offering here” will be on table in the back of the sanctuary.

In greeting each other, no handshakes or hugs. Smiles, waves, or elbow bumps are OK.  If anyone is experiencing any cough, cold or 'flu like symptoms, please self-isolate at home, but please let us know so that we can serve and pray for you.

We are working on the best and most efficient way to serve the communion elements.  

If you would prefer to stay home and away from the crowds at church, we are looking into a way to show the entire service live online so you could watch it from home. 

Weekly sermons will continue to be posted.

We will conduct a beta test on conducting a “virtual home group” this week.

We will continue to provide refreshments after service, with the following adjustments:
a)    Drinks (coffee, water, Juice, etc., will be located on a separate table and served by designated servers only. They will wear gloves. 
b)    Food: Hand sanitizer and a large pile of napkins will be supplied for folks to take food. Only dry goods will be offered such as cookies. No moisture retaining foods such as cheeses and vegetable strips will be offered. No foods will be offered that might involve taking handfuls such as popcorn or nuts. 

At this time, we are not recommending a shutdown of our Sunday services, but are recognizing that attendance may drop because some may feel they are in the at-risk category or are feeling ill.  

We will continue to monitor the situation with CDC and SCC Health.

Most of all we will continue to be understanding, loving, and kind to one another, serving those in need, praying for our community and the world, and sharing the hope that we have in Jesus Christ.

Thank God for His Provision and Care during difficult times.
Psalm 46:1


Elder Board
Orchard Valley Christian Church