COVID-19 Protocol Update

Dear Cornerstone Family:

As we listen to news reports out of Washington DC it reminds us of just how contagious this virus is. The president and many of his staff have contracted the virus and it seems we are hearing daily of more within the president's inner circle that are testing positive.

Recently we have been made aware of congregations being infected by COVID-19 and having to shut down. We want to share a few of those situations and ask for your continued diligence within our church family.

• As we all know Kathy and Gary Stewart are recovering from COVID-19 and we appreciate the way they have quarantined themselves to avoid passing it on to others. We continue to pray for a safe recovery and look forward to them being back with us soon.
• Two weeks ago Ken Weliever informed us of a congregation in Cosby, TN that has had to close due to the virus spreading within their group.
• Today we saw on facebook that the Spring Warrior Church in Perry, FL has had to close. Aric Russell preaches there and he thinks he and his wife have both contracted the virus along with several other members.
• Last Saturday Josh Lee who preaches at the church in Franklin was diagnosed with COVID-19. They closed Sunday and will remain shut down next Sunday as well. We would assume if others become infected that could increase the duration. We have been told a family here has been attending Franklin so they would not have to wear masks. If that is true we would ask that family and any household members to quarantine for the next 2 weeks and not risk bringing the infection into the Cornerstone family.

We fully understand the frustration this virus is causing. We also are aware that most individuals that contract COVID-19 will fully recover. However we have several members that if they contract the Coronavirus they could die as a result. That reason alone should make everyone of us want to do our part to minimize the risk to others.

We have done all we can to be vigilant. We have installed air purification technology and put all the protocols in place to do our best to provide a safe place to worship. We asked Mark Ringle to speak to the congregation last Sunday to remind us all of the need to wear masks properly over the mouth and nose as the virus resides primarily in the nasal cavity. Again, this past Sunday, we observed many pulling their mask down under their nose or down to their chin. Again we are asking everyone to be respectful of the protocols that have been put in place for our protection. We have talked with our medical professionals within our family and they agree with the protocols that have been put in place.

Please pray for a vaccine to be developed soon so hopefully we can get back to some semblance of normalcy. Until then be mindful of all those around you and wear your masks properly when in worship together and while interacting before and after. If you have been in contact with anyone who has contracted  COVID-19, PLEASE self quarantine for 14 days and tune into the live stream.

If an outbreak begins to develop within our Cornerstone family we will have to close down our in person worship. We are asking everyone to do their part to prevent that from happening.

We can get through this together if we remain vigilant.

Thanks

George, Rich, and Russ