Grace Cathedral, one of the significant Episcopal churches in California, will now require visitors to be vaccinated.
In August, several Episcopal dioceses reported that all staff and clergy had to be vaccinated by September 15.
Grace Cathedral's leadership have made the deadline much sooner. An update to their website reveals that those who wish to attend must bring proof of vaccination.
"Grace Cathedral strives to be a community of joy, courage, and wonder, online and in-person," Grace said on their website. "Starting August 24, proof of vaccination for anyone age 12 and above will be required." These requirements apply to weekly services, Columbarium committals, funerals, and weddings.
Grace Cathedral is a significant parish in California. It is currently the main church for the Episcopal Church of California.
The chapel will also maintain limits on the number of individuals allowed to attend. The facility will enable visitors to prove their vaccination status through cards provided by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pictures of their card or digital records provided by the state or approved companies. Grace will also ask that attendees pre-register before attending religious services, using the separate entrance and exit routes and wearing masks indoors.
While the facility will allow unscheduled visitors at any time, sightseeing tours are still postponed.
Grace Cathedral has existed since 1849, albeit with a few reconstruction efforts due to local earthquakes. The cathedral has attracted many tourists alongside its mixture of controversies. In 2018, Episcopal organizers hosted a "Beyonce Mass", a worship service featuring the music of Beyonce. It has also featured several non-religious ceremonies over the years.
