Frequently Asked Questions
For Worship Gatherings Beginning October 25, 2020
What is the new worship schedule for Sundays?
9am – Mask Optional
A cappella – Auditorium
Instrumental – Gym
Nursery & children’s Bible classes
10:30am – Mask Required
A cappella – Auditorium
Instrumental – Gym
Nursery only
What does “mask optional” “mask required” really mean?
Because our small entranceways, hallways, and lobbies make social distancing difficult to maintain, everyone is asked to wear a mask as they enter and exit the building, or while in a hallway or bathroom.
Those attending the mask optional service may remove their mask once they are seated in the Auditorium, Gym, or a classroom.
Those attending the mask required service are asked to keep their mask on throughout the worship service.
How long will the worship services last?
Approximately one hour. We will start promptly at the designated time, so arriving early to drop off children for Bible class is highly recommended.
Will the online services continue?
Online services will continue, but they will be prerecorded instead of live streamed. You can find links to the videos in our Friday email, website, or Facebook page.
Why do we still have to register to attend a worship service or Bible class ahead of time?
We know it feels strange to register for church. However, we keep track of every person in attendance in case someone later tests positive for COVID-19, which has happened on several occasions. Your pre-registration ensures a smooth entry into the Auditorium or Gym.
If I don’t register ahead of time, can I still attend a worship service, or can my child still attend a Bible class?
Yes, if maximum capacity has not been reached. You will be asked to complete a registration form on paper or online before entering the building. If someone attending your service later tests positive, you will be contacted using the email or phone number you provided at registration.
Where do I enter the Gym for the instrumental service?
You will enter directly into the Gym through the doors to the right of the Brown Awning. Latecomers will enter through the glass doors under the Brown Awning.
Where do I enter the Auditorium for the a cappella service?
You will enter through the front doors that face Old Hickory Blvd.
How will you clean the building between services?
At the end of the 9am service, the tops of every pew will be wiped down. Other frequently touched surfaces, like door knobs/handles will also be wiped down. Disinfectant wipes will be available for anyone wishing to give their pew area a second cleaning. The chairs in the Gym will not be wiped down between services, but disinfectant wipes will be available upon request.
Can I sit anywhere I want to in the Auditorium or Gym?
Just about. We’ve roped off every other pew in the Auditorium and will keep 6 feet between each row of chairs in the Gym. Everyone is encouraged to keep social distancing in mind when selecting a seat.
What about communion and offering?
We will continue to provide prepackaged communion which will be available for you to pick up as you enter the Auditorium or Gym. Contributions can be dropped into a “Give Box” located near the entrances or you can give online.
Will restrooms be available?
Yes. Restrooms will be open and available.
Do I need to let you know if I or anyone in my family tests positive for Covid-19?
Please do. If you or someone in your family attends a Harpeth Hills worship service or children’s Bible class and tests positive for Covid-19 later that same week, let a minister or staff member know immediately. While maintaining your privacy and not disclosing your or your family member’s name, we will notify those who attended the same worship service or Bible class and initiate contact tracing protocols if appropriate.
Children’s Ministry Related Questions
When is the children’s programming available?
During the 9am worship service. Kindergarten and younger are dropped off for their Bible class before worship service begins. 1st-6th Grade attend the worship services in the Auditorium or Gym and then are dismissed to their Bible class after communion is observed.
Where do I check-in for children’s Bible class?
Check-in for Kindergarten and younger begins at 8:45am under the Brown Awning. After drop off, parents should continue outside to enter the Auditorium or Gym through the designated doors.
Where do I pick up my children after church?
Kindergarten and under can be picked up under the Brown Awning. 1st-6th Grades will be dismissed back to the Auditorium or Gym and will rejoin their families during the last song.
How long will the 1st-6th Grade Bible class last?
Their Bible class will last approximately 30 minutes.
We plan to attend the 10:30am worship service. Can my kids still participate in the Bible classes?
Yes. 1st-6th graders who are not attending a 9am service but want to be part of a Bible class may check-in at the Brown Awning between 9:15 – 9:25am. They will be escorted to their classroom and they will be dismissed back to the Brown Awning at the end of Bible class.
Will there be any children’s programming during the 10:30am services?
No. But there will be a Children’s Moment in each 10:30am worship service and the nursery will be open and staffed for children ages birth to 36 months. Nursery check-in for the 10:30am service begins at 10:15am under the Brown Awning.
Will there by any Covid-19 related precautions in place for the children’s Bible classes?
Yes. All Bible class teachers and 1st-6th Grade students will wear a mask when social distancing cannot be observed – i.e. walking to and from class in the hallway. Once in a classroom, teachers and students will be seated 6 feet apart and may remove masks.
Kindergarten and younger are not required to wear a mask. Teachers of these classes will wear a mask when social distancing cannot be observed. Surfaces will be disinfected before children enter the classroom, and teachers will help all children wash hands at the beginning and end of class.