All those attending The Episcopal Church’s 80th General Convention in Baltimore in July will be required to show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or submit a medical exemption in advance for approval, according to a newly adopted resolution by the Joint Standing Committee on Planning and Arrangements.
Read the full resolution.
The vaccination requirement will be based on CDC or state and local guidelines and legal requirements as of June 20, 2022, and will include boosters recommended by that date. All attendees also will be required to wear masks in all public areas at the convention, regardless of vaccination status.
The General Convention Office will provide additional details about how to submit proof of vaccination status in advance and on site, as well as provide guidelines for international attendees.
“This decision will help ensure the safest possible environment, and is consistent with the church’s message of care for our communities and ourselves,” said Canon Michael Barlowe, executive officer of the General Convention and chair of the committee. “More information about the policy’s administration will be available in the new year.”
The General Convention is The Episcopal Church’s highest temporal authority, is the largest gathering of Episcopalians from across the church, and meets every three years to set policies and priorities for the church’s mission and ministry. Originally scheduled before the pandemic for July 2021, the 80th General Convention was rescheduled for July 7-14, 2022, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland.
