As you likely know, the governor’s order for limiting gatherings expired this Monday, January 4th. Accordingly, conversations have begun about returning to in-person worship in the South Hills Partnership. This Sunday, January 10th, we will remain online-only.

For the immediate future, here is where each church stands so far:

• Carnegie and Spencer plan to reopen for worship next Sunday, January 17th, at their usual times (9:30 and 11). 
  • Waiting for the 17th rather than the first Sunday after the order is lifted gives us a full two-week “quarantine period” after the New Year holiday, and additionally will allow us to get a clearer picture of COVID-19 trends as testing picks back up.
• Fairhaven and Hill Top have not yet made plans to open their sanctuaries for worship, and the leadership of the congregations will be in discussion moving forward.

Please be aware that–to my knowledge–we are currently at the highest number of COVID cases among the people of the Partnership that we’ve yet seen. Even as the end of the pandemic is finally on the horizon, we are still in a very difficult time. I ask your continued caution and patience, as well as prayers for those suffering from the virus, for those who mourn, and for those engaged in medical and front-line work.
Additionally, you should be aware that free COVID testing is available locally if you need it, including at Fairhaven on Thursdays. There are limited walk-ups, but you can also register in advance at alleghenycovidtesting.com. Fairhaven is also blessed to be a vaccination site for medical personnel and EMS, and hopes to offer vaccinations for the general public as it becomes available.

Please note that in-person worship at all South Hills Partnership churches is suspended, given the rise in COVID cases and the latest state order.

You can view the worship on FB or at shpumc.org.