CLEARWATER, Fla. — Churches are slowly opening back up for the first time since statewide safer-at-home orders due to the coronavirus pandemic went into effect.
What You Need To Know
- The Point Church in Clearwater among those open May 17
- Attendees sat in chairs 6 feet apart
- Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg may roll out reopening plan in a few weeks
- More Pinellas County stories
"It's good to be back inside!" said Pastor Branson Rogers of The Point Church in Clearwater as services began at 9:00 a.m.
The Point was among those churches to reopen their doors to worshipers Sunday. Things looked a bit different inside for those attending, however.
Instead of rows, attendees sat in chairs spaced six feet apart. Signs and markers were placed throughout, reminding churchgoers to avoid physical contact.
That lack of a touch was a big adjustment for many.
"We’re a hugging church, so it was really hard not to hug everybody, but people did really well," said church member Billi Conklin.
The church posted a video showing they are spraying down the chairs after each use. They've also implemented controlled dismissal and limited bathroom use, as well as added an extra Sunday service to keep fewer people inside.
Like many churches, they’ve just been offering virtual services and drive-ins during the pandemic.
Attendees may have had to stay six feet apart on Sunday but it’s the closest they’ve been in weeks.
"They’ve missed this. I’ve missed this," said Rogers. "Our folks, they genuinely are happy to be back and we’re happy to be open today and be back."
Other churches are taking similar safety precautions, while some have not yet reopened. The Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg has kept services online but may roll out a reopening plan in a few weeks.
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