In-Person Sunday Worship
Update: Nov. 6, 2022
The Congregational Council approved changes to the masking policy at St. Mark’s during its October meeting. Starting Sunday, November 6th, masks will be strongly recommended but not required.
Covid-19 is still active, although vaccines have reduced the severity, hospitalizations, and morbidity. While we will no longer require worshipers to wear masks, we still support and encourage everyone to continue masking for the sake of those with underlying conditions that make them more susceptible to infection. Remember: my mask protects you; your mask protects me.
I’m also aware that, to some, masks have become a political statement. Knowing the congregation of St. Mark’s as we do, Council doesn’t expect this to be an issue. Yet, I would like to draw your attention to our Mission Statement, which states in part: “With openness of heart and spirit, we welcome all.”
– Jeremy McClain, President, St. Mark’s Congregational Council
Current COVID Data
Here are some resources for keeping informed on current COVID levels and safety guidelines:
Overview & Safety Precautions
We are so happy to have the opportunity to worship together again in person, but we ask that you help us keep our community safe and healthy. Here are some constraints we ask worshipers to observe:
If you are experiencing any symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19, please stay home and worship with us remotely.
Face masks are strongly recommended but not required.
There will be no common elements during communion; individual servings of bread or GF wafer and wine or juice will be available.
St. Mark's will continue to livestream the 11 a.m. every Sunday.
Before You Arrive
Note that doors and windows will remain open during the service in order to increase air circulation. We advise you to dress warmly because it will be noticeably cooler in the church than you have been used to.
Please park in the St. Mark’s parking lot (map), accessible from Gough Street. If the lot is full, street parking is available.
In-Person Worship FAQs
Do I need to RSVP?
No. All worshippers who feel comfortable attending large gatherings in-person are welcome to do so.
Are masks required indoors?
As of November 2022, masks are no longer required to be worn indoors at St. Mark’s events, though mask-wearing is strongly encouraged until COVID is truly behind us. Remember: my mask protects you; your mask protects me.
Will there be sufficient airflow?
For your continued safety, all Sanctuary doors will remain open to increase airflow from the outside (rather than simply recirculating interior air). Please bring a warm layer, as cold and windy conditions are common year-round.
Will I be able to sing?
All worshippers are encouraged to sing boldly.
Will I be able to participate in Holy Communion?
Yes; Communion will be available to all, in individual portions (no shared cup). Please follow the instructions given by the ministers and the direction of the ushers.
Is childcare available?
Yes, childcare is available in the Nursery from 8:45 a.m. through Fellowship Hour following the 11:00 service.
Will there be an in-person Coffee Hour following the service?
Yes, all who are comfortable doing so are welcome to gather downstairs in the Heritage Hall for fellowship and light refreshments. As of March 13, 2022, vaccination verification is no longer required to fully participate in this time of fellowship.
Thank you again for your patience! Please check this page and the weekly announcements regularly for any updates, as we respond to changing conditions and City guidance. If you have any questions, please email info@stmarks-sf.org.
