A MESSAGE FROM DEAN THOMASON

MAY 12, 2022

As you have likely observed in recent days, the number of people we know contracting COVID has increased substantially. Since April 12 (just one month ago) the King County daily infection rate has more than doubled! The good news—those who are fully vaccinated experience a relatively mild illness for the most part, and hospitalization rates have not risen in commensurate ways. The bad news—vaccinations and booster shots do not seem to carry as much protection with the latest variants as they did earlier. We must therefore rely on additional interventions to ensure the well-being of everyone who worships in the cathedral.

To that end, and with some grief at the need for it, it is time for us to resume the mask mandate for worship, until further notice, guided by the public health statistics. I hope it won’t be a lengthy imposition, but this is an important measure for us to take at this time. Effective this Sunday, May 15, 2022, all persons attending worship services in-person are requested to wear a mask of optimal protection—N95, KF94, KN95 types masks are highly encouraged, for your sake and for the benefit of others. Other forms of masks offer a much lower protective benefit.

I would encourage all ministry groups to resume a similar practice as well. The choirs have already adopted this, and I am grateful for their example. We can continue to worship well together, and with all the elements of liturgy to which we are accustomed. Of course, you can also join via livestream for the 11 a.m. Eucharist and 9:30 p.m. Compline service each Sunday.

I suspect this request will come as no surprise to any of you, perhaps a relief to some, but if you find it problematic, I would welcome the chance to visit with you. I am grateful for this community and for the ways we continue to care for one another.

Blessings and peace,

The Very Rev. Steven L. Thomason, Dean & Rector