Greetings to you all,

As a result of rising numbers of COVID cases in the State of Oregon, and the United States as a whole, the State of Oregon on Friday, August 13th, enacted a mask requirement for all indoor gatherings, statewide, starting on the 13th. While there is always an incredibly remote possibility of these mandates being removed by the time of the Feast of Tabernacles, given the trajectory of cases and hospitalizations at the moment in the State of Oregon, as well as the rhetoric statewide, I believe this scenario to be VERY unlikely. 

So. What that means is that all attendees for the Feast of Tabernacles in Bend-Redmond will need to wear masks, vaccinated, or unvaccinated in accordance with Oregon State law. The specifics of the current mandate can be found here.

The State of Oregon requires a mask, face covering, or face shield - all of which must meet certain requirements. These requirements can be found in the above link in 3(c) and 3(d). Masks, face coverings, and face shields must be worn appropriately at all times within the indoor space. This is not negotiable, and there exists no medical exemptions for individuals who are unable to wear a mask, to meet in person without one, even for medical reasons in the State of Oregon. 

I recognize that this may create an incredible challenge for many as we come into the Feast, and also fully recognize that this may result in a change to your festival plans. If you do choose to change your plans, please make sure to update your registration accordingly so that we know how many spaces we have remaining, and have accurate lists for the Feast. 

Lastly - if you choose to keep the Feast in Bend, but not attend in-person services as a result of the mask mandates, instead, keeping it in small groups and catching the Bend-Redmond webcast, please update your registration from Bend to 'Keeping the Feast at Home'. I know that you are in Bend, but the 450 person registration limit is for in-person attendance, and if you are registered and not attending in person - that takes up additional spaces. 

Thank you for your patience, understanding, and we appreciate your compliance with the Oregon State mandates at this time. We are gearing up for a wonderful Feast of Tabernacles, and the opportunity to assemble and praise our Great God on His appointed days - masks and all. 

If you have specific questions - please feel free to reach out. 

Respectfully, 
Ben

Festival Coordinator - Bend-Redmond, Oregon