Re-opening of St. Stephen’s

RE-OPENING OF ST. STEPHEN’S—WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Church Services

As you know, the Diocese has stated that we may resume in person worship and other limited church activities starting July 1st. Here is an abbreviated version of the Diocesan guidelines which can be found here: (https://www.diolicovid19.info/lcp-june-10-2020.html).

Diocesan Guidelines Overview, Starting July 1

  • Services cannot be over 30 minutes
  • People over 65 are strongly discouraged from attending any service
  • No Communion is allowed at this time
  • Must keep 6 feet distance from others
  • No restrooms available
  • Face masks must be worn at all times
  • We must do “Contact Tracing” i.e. keep record of who attends each service
  • No food or beverages
  • No singing
  • No Prayer Books or Hymnals can be used
  • Indoor services cannot use A/C or fans
  • No in person Sunday School allowed

In light of these guidelines the Vestry has decided that we will NOT have indoor services for July and August. The Vestry will be making decisions for September as more information regarding COVID-19 becomes available.

We will,however,start holding an outdoor Morning Prayer Service Sundays at 8:30am, beginning on July12th. This service will be in the courtyard (grassy area by flag pole). Attendees will need to bring their own chair, wear masks, and keep a safe distance from others.

The online Zoom service will continue as usual at 10am on Sundays.

I know that this is disappointing information for many people, but after much study, deliberation, and consultation with Dr. Griffin, the Vestry decided that this was the best course of action at this time. There is still so much that is unknown about the virus, and we want everyone to be as safe as possible.

Consignment Shop

  • The Consignment Shop will open for customers on Saturdays only 10am-4pm beginning July 11th. The Shop will be closed on Thursdays.
  • The Shop is only taking items from consignors and BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. NO DONATIONS for thrift are being accepted at
  •   You need to call the shop for an appointment. These appointments will be available only on Tuesdays beginning July 7th. Call (516) 944-8829 to book an appointment.
  • The shop will follow all of the latest New York State, Diocesan, and CDC regulations to ensure a safer shopping experience.
  • All customers must wear masks, clean their hands upon entrance, and follow social distancing among other things not listed here. The restrooms will not be available to customers.

Other Activities

Other activities are on a case by case basis. The Port Washington Children’s Center will be using their designated area for Summer Camp. AA has been meeting in the parking lot. As of now those are the only other approved gatherings.