West Columbia, SC (Paul Kirby) – Brookland United Methodist Church has announced that it will return to an in-person service format on June 14th, 2020. The church is located on Meeting Street in the City of West Columbia. According to the church’s leadership, worship will still be somewhat different than the norm and on-line services will remain available for those who choose that.
In a letter sent to members of the church from its leadership team, they said it has been decided that the Fellowship Hall’s space is best for their return to worship. According to the church, worship may look and feel a little different as well. There will be no choir, no congregational hymns, or responsive readings. These changes should not prevent active participation in the service according to leaders. People in attendance are encouraged to reflect, hum, or meditate on the songs and the creeds that their church and faith are accustomed to. The changes being put into place were developed by following the guidelines set forth by the CDC and DHEC.

Congregants are being asked to arrive early to ensure proper social distancing. This will allow greeters time to pass out masks and gloves for people who need or want those. It will also allow an opportunity for leaders to record the names of those attending. Additionally, the fellowship hall will be thoroughly cleaned prior to and after each use. Leadership believes this will aid in the prevention of disease.
The church’s pastor and other leaders made it clear that if anyone does not feel comfortable returning to in person worship, they should not feel compelled to do so. Their letter made it clear that members’ safety and health are their primary concern. If anyone who plans to attend, or worshipers who still wish to continue participating from home, has specific needs or concerns, they should contact their church leaders. They will address these and the church’s plan to worship together while still working to prevent the spread of the COVID-19.
In closing, the church’s leadership said that if anyone is experiencing a fever, does not feel well, or has encountered anyone with COVID-19, please refrain from coming and notify your primary care provider as soon as possible.
