WESTPHALIA UMC Assumption of the Risk and Waiver of Liability Relating to Coronavirus/COVID-19

The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has been declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization. COVID-19 is extremely contagious and is believed to spread mainly from person-to-person contact. As a result, federal, state, and local governments and federal and state health agencies recommend social distancing and have, in many locations, prohibited the congregation of groups of people.

Westphalia UMC(“the Church”) has put in place preventative measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19; however, the church  cannot guarantee that you or your child(ren) will not become infected with COVID-19. Further, attending the Church could increase your risk of contracting COVID-19.

By completing this registration , I acknowledge the contagious nature of COVID-19 and voluntarily assume the risk that I (and my child should I bring a child with me to church) may be exposed to or infected by COVID-19 by attending the church and that such exposure or infection may result in personal injury, illness, permanent disability, and death. I understand that the risk of becoming exposed to or infected by COVID-19 at the church may result from the actions, omissions, or negligence of myself and others, including, but not limited to, church contractors or employees, ministry participants, and/or congregants.

I voluntarily agree to assume all of the foregoing risks and accept sole responsibility for any injury to myself or my children (including, but not limited to, personal injury, disability, and death), illness, damage, loss, claim, liability, or expense, of any kind, that I or my child(ren) may experience or incur in connection with our attendance at the Church or participation in Church services. I (and on behalf of my children if with me) hereby release, covenant not to sue, discharge, and hold harmless the Church, its contractors, its employees, agents, and representatives, of and from the Claims, including all liabilities, claims, actions, damages, costs or expenses of any kind arising out of or relating thereto. I understand and agree that this release includes any Claims based on the actions, omissions, or negligence of the Church, its employees, agents, and representatives, whether a COVID-19 infection occurs before, during, or after participation in any Church service or program. 

If you have experienced a body temperature higher than 100.4 degrees F in the last 72 hours, please particpate online at home. 

If you have had a persistent cough or other symptoms during the last 72 hours, please particpate online at home

To adhere to verbal or written instruction regarding movement throughout the building, including but not limited to ingress (enter), egress (exit), use of certain areas and seating. 

To bring their own mask and face covering (that covers their nose all the way down to their chin- covering must press against nose down to chin area completely covering mouth and chin) 

 To wear a mask face covering (that covers their nose all the way down to their chin) at all times upon entering the indoor portion of the campus. 

 To keep and maintain at least six feet of physical distance at all times upon entering the indoor portion of the campus. 

To sit in assigned seats (per registration information) and where directed 

 To refrain from all physical contact (no hugs, no handshakes, no fist bumps) 

To continue to use electronic giving or mail in giving – a drop off area may be available during worship services 

To adhere to social distancing guidelines of at least six feet apart 

To understand Childcare/nursery/ Children’s Spiritual Corner in person classes will not be offered. Please Note: it is very difficult for young children to abide by social distancing guidelines. 

To clear the building and parking lot at the conclusion of service 

 To refrain from consuming food or beverages in the building 

 To refrain from passing any items to other congregants (please do not pass pens, mints, tissues, candy, fans, etc.) 

Please consult your personal physician or the state health department if you have concerns for further guidance.