INSIDE SADDLEBACK: What are the New Wineskins?

Guidelines for Getting Together For Saddleback Church Small Groups

Gathering together in large groups is still in the future. The natural question at this stage of the COVID-19 crisis is, "Can we begin to gather in small groups?"

Sadly, infections are currently increasing at a rapid rate. Our recommendation is that you will continue to meet online as your primary venue, whenever possible and appropriate.  However, we recognize the importance of face-to-face gatherings and the desire we all have to be in proximity with one another. So, if you decide to hold physical gatherings, please follow these guidelines:

• Check the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention and California Department of Public Health websites frequently for the most up-to-date safety guidelines and recommendations, as they are changing often.  (www.CDC.gov   https://www.cdph.ca.gov )
• For the safety of our communities, we suggest there should be no inside gatherings at this point in time. If gathering, we suggest meeting outdoors in groups of 12 or less, wear a mask, and maintain 6' social distancing.  Why? GREAT question! Because we have all experienced firsthand the challenges of maintaining proper social distancing, even with best intentions and best efforts. These guidelines will ensure that gatherings reflect our very best effort to keep everybody safe and healthy during this health crisis.
• If you have children under the age of 18 (SK/SSM) in your small group, by choosing to hold an in-person gathering, you are agreeing to hold everybody in attendance accountable to the above guidelines.

McKinsey Leadership Resource

Leading as Pastors in a Pandemic