Our COVID-19 Policy

Updated April 26, 2022

Current Risk Category: Low

Now that the rate of new COVID cases and infection rates have fallen to low levels in Shelby County, The Church of the River COVID Task Force has decided to lower the risk and restriction level to "Low".

If case numbers and infection rates rise, the level of restrictions in our buildings may rise as well. The Task Force will continue to follow a three-tiered system of guidelines, based on whether the risk level is considered Low, Medium or High/Very High, according to the latest www.covidactnow.org statistics for the Memphis area. The Task Force will continue to meet as needed to assess the situation and make decisions centered on the health of the congregation. We encourage everyone to remain up-to-date, as eligible, on their vaccinations and boosters.

Services will always be livestreamed online, and also posted for viewing later, for those who are not comfortable attending in person or who are physically unable to attend. Online and text giving will continue to be available during worship services. If you would like to set up a recurring donation or make an annual pledge or one-time gift, please Donate Online.

Risk Guidelines

High/Very High Risk

  • Up-to-date vaccinations/boosters required for those eligible
  • Mandatory masking
  • Social distancing strongly encouraged; every other row of pews roped off
  • No singing
  • Informal socializing allowed outdoors with no food or drink
  • Services may revert to entirely online when necessary

Medium Risk

  • Masking and social distancing strongly encouraged
  • Singing Permitted
  • Coffee hour permitted indoors

Low Risk

  • Masking and social distancing optional but strongly encouraged
  • Singing Permitted
  • Coffee hour permitted indoors

Guidelines for Small Group Meetings

Church-related gatherings on the property should include the same COVID prevention measures that are in place for Sunday services.

Weddings, Events and Other Facility Rentals

Weddings, memorial services, Memorial Garden consecrations, and other observances and events must be coordinated with the Administrator, and must follow the same COVID prevention measures that are in place for Sunday services. We are currently only accepting reservations for weddings/events scheduled before the end of 2022, and all reservations/rentals are subject to change or cancellation if the COVID risk level rises again.

Donations:

Online and text giving will continue to be available during online worship services. If you would like to set up a recurring donation or make an annual pledge or one-time gift, please Donate Online.