For several months now, masks have been optional on the First Church campus, including in the sanctuary during Sunday morning worship. An exception to this policy has been that those leading worship, including choir members, both in rehearsal and in worship, have still been required to mask. The Covid Task Force recently convened and has determined that with the end of the national public health crisis declaration and continued high prevalence of vaccination and booster rates within the Portland Metro area, individuals should be supported if they choose to mask or not within the choir. This means that masks will now be completely optional at all times on the First Church campus. However, anyone experiencing any symptom of a respiratory or other illness is strongly encouraged not to attend choir practices, performances, worship services, or any other in-person church activity. This interim policy will remain until the Fall choir reconvenes and we consider updated information and feedback for the new program year.