The Episcopal Church’s presiding bishop said in April, “As our seasons of life in the COVID-19 world continue to turn, we are called to continue to be creative, to risk, to love. We are called to ask, what would unselfish, sacrificial love do?” Given the time a congregation will need to prepare for “significantly-limited gatherings” in the next phase of regathering, there will be no live in-person worship services permitted in the Diocese of Maryland until Sunday, May 31, the Feast of Pentecost, at the earliest. Our diocesan leadership has provided these guidelines to help each of our communities come back together in responsible ways that honor congregation and their needs.

Some regions in the state will be able to move more quickly than others. Some congregations will be able to regather sooner than others. Some will not feel comfortable regathering until July or August.

We’re working together to move our diocese forward in a healthy and safe way for all our members. Remember our watchwords during this time, Stay calm. Stay connected. Stay church.