Flu Season Announcement

Dear ones,

Cold and flu season is fully upon us. While COVID levels are currently low, this is shaping up to be one of the worst influenza seasons in decades, and RSV remains widespread.

At last week’s service, I noticed several people coughing and sniffling—very likely spreading germs—without wearing masks. I want to name this gently and clearly, because how we respond matters to one another.

Cold, flu, RSV, and COVID viruses all spread through respiratory droplets. When we cough or sneeze, those droplets can travel four to six feet before settling. That means the person sitting in front of you, behind you, or beside you is directly in their path—and they do not want your germs.  You are likely more contagious than you think.

The good news is simple and effective: when someone who is sick wears a mask, transmission becomes rare. Masks work best when the person who is coughing or sniffling wears one—much more effectively than when only well people do.

So please, if you are coughing or sniffling, even just a little bit, even if you think it is just allergies, wear a mask while at the fellowship. If you’re feeling too unwell to mask comfortably, we lovingly ask that you stay home and join us on Zoom. The service will be there, and so will we.

Those who are feeling well may also choose to wear a mask over the next few weeks to avoid the worst of the season. Good-quality masks are available in the hallway by the name tags.

This is not about fear. It’s about kindness, shared air, and caring for the most vulnerable among us. Thank you for looking out for one another.

Let’s stay well—together.

With appreciation,
John