Claggett To Close March 13-27, 2020

March 13, 2020

Dear Friends and Guests of the Claggett Center,

The Claggett Center board of trustees met last night and made the difficult decision to close the Claggett Center to guests beginning at noon today, March 13 until noon, March 27, 2020.

This decision is in line with the direction of government officials; yesterday afternoon Maryland Governor Larry Hogan issued an executive order that all public schools close until March 27 and public gatherings of 250 or more are prohibited. By closing to guests for the next 14 days, the Claggett Center is joining other large institutions in taking action to protect public health and safety and limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Maryland and our region.

Just as we permit groups to transfer their reservation and deposit in the event of a state issued weather-related event, groups scheduled to retreat at Claggett from March 13-27, 2020 will be allowed to reschedule and transfer their deposit within a 12 month period. Please contact Reservations Manager, Kim Wyand, to rebook your event.

The Claggett offices will remain open at this time, with staff working on-site and remotely. You may reach our staff through the usual contact information.

The Claggett Center is a place for spiritual renewal, growth, and learning. During this time when many are practicing social distancing, we urge folks to find ways to safely connect. Now more than ever, it is important for us to support one another. All are welcome to join in virtual worship with the Episcopal Church. This coming Sunday, March 15, at 11:00 AM, our presiding bishop, the Most Rev. Michael Bruce Curry, will be preaching at our National Cathedral. Many other churches and groups are also live streaming events and programs. 

We will continue to follow the recommendations of government officials regarding public spaces and gatherings. When the Claggett Center reopens to guests, we will continue to follow best practices and additional precautions to provide a safe and healthy environment. 

Sincerely,

James Ryder and Lisa Marie Ryder

Co-Executive Directors

 

A Prayer for Those Affected by the Coronavirus

O God of compassion, giver of life and health, we pray your healing mercies upon all who are in any way affected by the outbreak of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Comfort and sustain those who have been stricken; relieve their pain, and restore to them your gifts of gladness and strength. Grant to all in authority the courage to make wise decisions that are essential for the common good, and strengthen them to lead institutions that care for those whom they serve. Watch over all first responders and those in the medical professions whose duty it is to care for the sick; guard them from all danger, and keep them safe in the knowledge that is through their sacrifice and service that the health of the whole community is promoted. Mercifully accept these our prayers, O God of all comfort, and our only help in time of need. Amen.