Join Us for In-Person Worship!
We’re so excited that we’re able to offer two fabulous options to worship with Middle! Every Sunday, we gather at 11:45 a.m. ET at East End Temple, in addition to the virtual celebration at middlechurch.org, Facebook or Youtube. Together, we embody God’s fierce love that wraps from the East Village, NYC to the more than 40 states and 20 countries that Middle members call home!
Our worship team is always hard at work imagining new technologies and liturgies that will deepen the bonds that connect us. We know there’s always ways to build a better online experience, and thank you for your grace as we all learn together. However, we are deeply committed to worship that fully reflects the breadth and beauty of God’s love.
We also know that we are all in different places about whether attending in-person gatherings feels safe and right. If you’re in New York City, and don’t yet feel comfortable joining in person, that’s okay! Do what feels safe to you and worship at home: virtual community is for everyone. To live in a community awash in just love, we require masks for in-person attendance (except for children under 2).
Frequently asked questions for those who plan to attend in person:
Do I need to register for worship?
No! Come as you are.
Can I usher?
Yes! We are delighted to welcome new and returning ushers. Anyone who wants to volunteer is invited to join a virtual training on Tuesday, October 5 at 7:00 p.m. ET. In addition to trainings, volunteers are asked to register for online or in-person ushering. Please sign up below:
Does everyone need to wear a mask if we’re vaccinated?
Yes! Masks—ideally at least the 3-ply surgical grade masks—are required for everyone worshipping in-person. (For reference, Middle staff wear KN95s.) We’re all responsible for keeping one another safe, and masks are a crucial tool in that effort. Click here to see a full list of our COVID policies for in-person gatherings.
Can we hug each other? What about the Passing of the Peace?
We ask that you begin by assuming people do not wish to be hugged, touched, or hold hands in prayer. If you would like to offer someone a hug or handshake, please ask them beforehand and respect their choice if they prefer to avoid personal contact.
What time should I arrive? When can I expect to leave?
Doors open at 11:30 a.m. ET for our 11:45 a.m. ET start. Worship ends at 12:45 p.m. ET.
Do I need proof of vaccination?
No! While we encourage everyone to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive regular boosters, we do not check vaccination status and all are welcome to join the celebration.
Frequently asked questions for those who plan to worship virtually:
Will virtual programming continue?
Yes! This church is much bigger than just New York City, and we are committed to providing robust and loving community for all members. When possible, every program will include options for virtual participation, and our programmatic staff are hard at work planning ways to facilitate interaction between virtual and in-person congregants.
Will we be seen in worship?
We’re always figuring out new technical systems in our temporary space, finding new ways to let in-person and virtual congregants see and interact with one another in worship. We’re grateful for your patience as we figure out these new systems! If you’ve seen an idea that works well, please let us know at worship@middlechurch.org.
Will we participate in worship?
Yes! Our worship team finds ways to incorporate leadership from both in-person and virtual worshippers. If you would like to virtually lead part of a celebration, please email our digital minister Rev. Natalie Renee Perkins!