Face Mask Ordinance

Dear Gateway Family,

This past Thursday evening, the Richland County Council passed an ordinance requiring a face mask for everyone in retail and commercial establishments beginning Monday, July 6th. While churches weren’t specifically mentioned, I believe it is prudent for Gateway to voluntarily follow the ordinance.  So, beginning next Sunday, July 12th, everyone (exemptions are listed below) who attends our in-person services will be asked to wear a face covering. 

There are several reasons for our new policy. First, after consulting with each of the medical doctors in our fellowship, they were all in agreement that Gateway should require face coverings for in-person gatherings. 

Second, our various government entities have passed similar ordinances. Although Governor McMaster has not required a face covering, he consistently recommends doing so. 

Third, even though the ordinance doesn’t compel us to obey, it does provide us with the opportunity to demonstrate that we are willing to be good neighbors within the larger community during our in-person gatherings. 

We will have face masks available at the church on Sunday mornings for those who do not have one or are unaware of our new policy.

Per the Richland County Council, the following are exemptions that we will follow at Gateway:

• Anyone who is unable to safely wear a face covering due to age or an underlying health condition
• When wearing a face covering aggravates a health condition
• If the person is 10 years of age or younger

Thank you for helping us stay safe!

Pastor Don

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.  Philippians 2:4