Re-opening FAQs
IN-PERSON GATHERINGS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who should not attend in person programming or worship?
We want everyone to experience welcome at Good Shepherd. For now, some people should choose to participate online and not in person. We encourage people in a “higher risk” category not to attend in person. People who are sick or and experiencing key symptoms identified by the CDC may not participate in person. Please know that people who participate online are full members of our parish community.
How should I prepare to participate in person?
For worship, please sign up HERE. Please bring a mask and wear your mask while you are on Good Shepherd’s campus. Our worship services will be different, and we encourage you to read about those differences before you arrive. It is possible that you will have a variety of different reactions to these differences – sadness, gladness – and we encourage you to be prepared for these different reactions.
Who is responsible for cleaning and disinfecting?
The parish’s facilities manager oversees cleaning and disinfecting, with the assistance of our sextons.
What if I can’t – or choose not to – participate in person at this time?
You are not a second-class Christian if you practice your faith at home. You are not a second-class worshipper if you worship online. You are part of our Good Shepherd family whether in-person or from your safe and socially-isolated space. We are continuing with many online offerings through this time: See them here.
What about visitors?
We reserve spots in each service for visitors who may arrive without having registered. Visitors will follow the same safety protocols as the rest of the congregation. We also warmly invite visitors to join us in all of our online worship and formation offerings: See them here.
Can children come to the in-person worship service?
Children are welcome, and children who attend must be able to follow the same guidelines as adults, wearing masks and distancing. Children should reserve a seat just like adults. We are not able to offer childcare.
How can I get help registering online?
Please call Kathy Jolink in the parish office at 512.476.3523.
How can I make my pledge payment or other gift to Good Shepherd?
Your gifts make all of our ministries possible, and your gifts reflect a commitment to the spiritual practice of generosity – a practice that is transformative. To give to Good Shepherd please click HERE. To drop off a check, please use our new, secure lock-box, located on the back door of Windsor campus administration building.
How were decisions made about the phased re-opening?
Our plan for phased re-opening follows guidance from The Episcopal Diocese of Texas and is informed by public health indicators and directives from CDC and Travis County. Our plan was drafted by groups of parishioners involved in worship, program, and parish leaders. Our plan has been reviewed and approved by The Episcopal Diocese of Texas.
How long will this last?
We will continue to follow guidance from the Diocese of Texas and public health authorities regarding when we may be able to adjust these plans.