Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center has worked for decades within a global learning community to co-create the “more beautiful world our hearts know is possible.” The Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing global environmental crisis unmask glaring inequalities that must give way to the common good. We mourn with all who have lost loved ones, with all who live in fear, with all whose dignity is threatened by the pandemic and direct or systemic hate and violence.
In response to these intertwined strands of global upheaval, Prairiewoods is “PanDeepening,” that is, stepping more deeply into our mission as “a sacred space where people of all faiths and cultures explore and nurture relationships with the Source of all Being, Earth, Self and Others.” We invite all to awaken, energized by the loving, creative Spirit of the Universe and the unfolding of its story. We stand in solidarity and continue to use the land, facilities, and energy to co-create a safe, just and peaceful world.
We have adopted a four-phased Pandemic Response Plan to provide for the safety and well-being of guests, volunteers and staff while also stewarding Prairiewoods through periods of pandemic-induced uncertainty. We study the most current, reliable science- and health-based information (CDC, Linn County Public Health and others) to evaluate, provide and adapt operations to ensure Prairiewoods exercises due diligence for the care of all. To the best of our ability, we are employing just, fair and transparent policies and protocols in order to be prepared to segue with agility and poise between different phases of operation as we strive to meet various needs of individuals and groups while responding to the ebb and flow of infectious spread.
Prairiewoods Policy on Masks:
The CDC guidelines for masking are based on metrics, updated weekly, for each county and can be found below and at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html.
- When Linn County is in High/Red status, masks will be required at Prairiewoods, and this requirement will be posted on entrances to our buildings.
- When Linn County is at Low/Green or Medium/Yellow stages, masks are welcome but not required.
- We will continue to offer masks at the front entrance to the Center free of charge for guests who wish to wear one.
Other Prairiewoods Guidelines:
- In our Guest House, guests will be assigned to single rooms unless a double room is specifically requested by the guest(s).
- Most rooms in the Guest House share a bathroom with the occupant(s) of the next room.
- There are a few single rooms with private bathrooms. Room assignments are determined by Prairiewoods. Specific requests may be made but are not guaranteed available.
- In the Center, we ask that guests keep in mind CDC recommendations for frequent handwashing and maintaining social distancing.
- If you are feeling ill, have a fever or have symptoms of Covid, please stay home for the protection of others.
- Air purifiers will continue to be used in shared group spaces.
- Please adhere to serving and distancing protocols for meals.
- Holistic services resume, following protocols established by professional organizations. Vaccination and masks may be required by the provider.
- In-person spiritual direction is available.
These policies went into effect March 15, 2022.