With local counties set to begin reopening businesses and organizations as part of Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf’s “yellow phase” for resuming activities with aggressive mitigation practices, Open Arms Church is among those adjusting policies and taking actions to get rolling again.

Wolf announced that McKean County — as well as most of northwestern Pennsylvania — could resume some business and recreational activities on May 8, provided those groups follow certain guidelines while doing so.

Among them are:

No gatherings of more than 25 people

Telework where it is still feasible

Businesses must follow safety orders

As such, Open Arms still cannot hold onsite services, but small groups and support groups are now able to meet, and the church is still holding online services. Stay-at-home restrictions were put in place for the entire state on April 1.

The adjustments are part of a four-phase plan the church has developed — and is still tinkering with — to figure out how best to proceed.

“We are reaching Phase 2, which includes holding small groups at the church,” interim lead pastor Zoe Hatcher noted in a press release. “Phase 3 encompasses a two-tier proposal to open up the church for limited services, and Phase 4 is a full reopen. The plan is a work in progress and is subject to change.”

With small support groups set to resume, church leaders are keeping the church clean so the building can be ready for Friday.

“We want to ensure your safety and health. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns,” Hatcher said.

The church has also maintained its outreach during the pandemic, including the delivery of meals and facemasks to local nursing homes. Those wishing to reach out to the church with a need of prayer or a practical need may do so at www.connect.oachurch.com.

Until further restrictions are lifted, the church will continue its online services and encourages its members to continue seeking acts of compassion.

“We know that this time apart, worshipping in our homes, has been an adjustment for all and even difficult for some,” Hatcher said. “We appreciate your patience in this process as we pray and seek the Lord as to what the most loving response to these guidelines are for our church family and for our community. We miss seeing everyone and are looking forward to reopening our services fully as soon as we are able to accommodate the varying needs of our church family.”