The idea of covenant is deeply rooted in our Scriptures. The God of the Bible is a covenanting God, an utterly trustworthy God who invites us to entrust our lives to God. Not only does God invite us into a covenantal relationship, but God also invites us to enter into covenantal relationships with each other. Such relationships are intended to promote mutual flourishing to the glory of God. In using the image of the church as a body, Paul is evoking a covenantal relationship. When we become part of the covenantal faith community in Jesus Christ, we enter into a relationship of mutual belonging and entrusting. We belong together, just as the parts of a human body belong together. In this covenant we offer mutual care and support. Annual Conference is intended to be an expression of the Christian covenant community, a relationship of mutual care and belonging. Our specific covenant for Annual Conference this year is a reflection of our intention to care for one another well in the name and spirit of Jesus Christ.
~Bishop David A. Bard, Presiding Bishop of the Michigan Conference
As an attendee of the Michigan Annual Conference, with events occurring June 1-4, 2022 at the Grand Traverse Resort, I covenant to the following health and safety practices as an expression of Christian compassion and care for myself and my neighbors. “To do no harm, to do good, and to stay in love with God.”
- I will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as defined by current CDC guidelines when I attend Annual Conference, or have a PCR test with negative result within 48 hours prior to arrival to Annual Conference.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definition of Fully Vaccinated: A person has received their primary series of COVID-19 vaccines; 2 doses from Pfizer or Moderna, or 1 dose from Johnson & Johnson. Although recommended, a booster shot is not required to be fully vaccinated.
- I will bring proof of my COVID-19 vaccination or negative PCR test result with me to Annual Conference and present it at the Registration Desk as part of the check-in process.
Before I arrive:
- I will monitor my health and if I have been exposed to COVID-19 or develop COVID-19 symptoms (cough, congestion, fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, loss of sense of taste or smell) within ten days before my planned arrival in Traverse City, I will not attend Annual Conference, and notify the Annual Conference Registrar of my absence.
- I will treat Annual Conference leaders and fellow attendees with grace and respect.
While attending Annual Conference:
- I commit to wearing an N-95, KN95 or similar approved mask over my nose and mouth in all public spaces, plenary sessions and break-out-sessions when not actively eating or drinking.
- I will engage in hand sanitization best practices, including before and after accessing a buffet line.
- I will monitor my health and if I develop COVID-19 symptoms (cough, congestion, fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, loss of sense of taste or smell), I will immediately inform the Annual Conference Registrar and will comply with all requests and instructions from Conference and resort staff, which will include PCR testing. I understand if I test positive, my roommate and I will be asked to leave campus as soon as possible.
- I will observe any additional health and safety protocols established before or during Annual Conference.
- I will treat Annual Conference leaders and fellow attendees with grace and respect.
I understand failure to uphold this covenant may result in being asked to not participate in Annual Conference.