PTS Community,

Case Count
The Seminary had 1 campus case of COVID-19 for the week of March 15-21.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

It’s been three years since the Seminary first closed the campus to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. For all of us, life has changed so much. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation, flexibility, and graciousness as we’ve navigated together this changing situation.   

Case Count
The Seminary had 3 campus cases of COVID-19 for the week of March 8-14.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count
The Seminary had 0 campus cases of COVID-19 for the week of March 1-7.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Take care,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count
The Seminary had 0 campus cases of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 22-28.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Take care,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count

The Seminary had 1 campus case of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 15-21.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Be well,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Counts

The Seminary had 0 campus cases of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 8-14.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Enjoy today’s beautiful spring-like weather,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Counts
The Seminary had 2 campus cases of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 1-7.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Be well,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count

The Seminary had 1 campus case of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 25-31.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Prayers for each of you as we kick off the Spring Semester,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

LiveSafe Reminder

If you receive a red X, please contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus. Managers, refer to the e-mail from Josie Hoover sent Sept. 2 for information about how to handle red X situations.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 campus cases of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 18-24.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

With ongoing appreciation for your cooperation,
Asa Lee, President

Jan. 18, 2023

PTS Community,

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 11-17. As a reminder, if you contract COVID, you should contact your close contacts and instruct them to watch for symptoms and to get tested as needed. A close contact is anyone who you’ve been within 6 feet of for a total of more than 15 minutes during a 24 hour period.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

With ongoing appreciation for your cooperation,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As the newest strain of COVID-19 makes it way to Allegheny County, please remember to practice good habits—get the bivalent booster, wear a mask when indoors and with lots of people, wash your hands, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell. We must continue to work together to protect the most vulnerable folks in our communities.

Case Count

The Seminary had 1 case of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 3-10. As a reminder, if you contract COVID, you should contact your close contacts and instruct them to watch for symptoms and to get tested as needed. A close contact is anyone who you’ve been within 6 feet of for a total of more than 15 minutes during a 24 hour period.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Medium; masks continue to be optional on campus. Masking requirements will change if the county transmission rate moves to High.

Be well,

Asa​ Lee, President

PTS Community,

I hope that your holiday break was restful. Welcome back!

LiveSafe App
New year, same policy. Please remember to complete the LiveSafe health check each day you’re on campus. You can follow the link from the daily e-mail, visit the Seminary’s website, or click here: https://livesafe.jotform.com/211685051786158.

Case Count

The Seminary had 1 case of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 14-20 and 0 cases for the week of Dec. 28-Jan. 3.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Happy New Year!

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As seasonal germs continue to circulate—Allegheny County currently has the highest number of flu cases in the state—please consider getting your flu shot if you haven’t already, regularly wash your hands, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

Case Count

The Seminary had 1 case of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 7-13.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

It was wonderful to see so many of you today at lunch as we celebrate the Christmas season and the birth of the Christ child!

As COVID-19 continues to affect the health of our communities, the Cabinet continues to monitor cases on campus and the pandemic.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 30-Dec. 6.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

You may have read in the local news that by the end of the year Curative will no longer have mobile testing sites for COVID-19. As cases drop and home tests are readily available, this service is no longer needed. Therefore, the Curative van that’s provided mobile testing on the PTS campus will no longer be available (exact date to be determined). If you are experiencing COVID symptoms and need a test, they are available over the counter and by appointment at nearby pharmacies.

Case Count
The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 23-29.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

With continued thanks for your cooperation,

Asa Lee, President

Dear PTS Community,

Please see the current operational update for the COVID-19 information this week.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 16-22.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

LiveSafe
During this time of year there are increased colds, flus, and other viruses circulating. Please be mindful of any COVID-like symptoms when completing the LiveSafe health check before coming to campus. As needed, talk with your supervisor or the Associate Dean for Students and Formation about any symptoms you have. If you’re feeling unwell for any reason, please stay home. Help to keep our campus healthy!

Case Count
The Seminary had 2 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 9-15.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is Low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Take care,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count
The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 26-Nov. 1.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Take care,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count
The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 19-25.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Be well,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Case Count
The Seminary had 2 case of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 12-18.

Mask Status
The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is medium; masks continue to be optional on campus.

As a reminder, if you have questions about the Seminary’s COVID protocols, our Health and Safety Plan is always available on our website.

Take care,
Asa

PTS Community,

What a beautiful day in the neighborhood!

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 5-11.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

As a reminder, if you have questions about the Seminary’s COVID protocols, our Health and Safety Plan is always available on our website: https://www.pts.edu/coronavirus.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The falling leaves are upon us!

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 28-Oct. 4.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is low; masks continue to be optional on campus. If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 5 days, you must wear a mask while on campus for 5 days following your exposure. And of course some folks in our community may choose to wear a mask for personal or health reasons regardless of community spread or exposure. 

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

LiveSafe Reminder

Remember to complete the LiveSafe app whenever you come to campus because this is a critical component of our contact tracing strategy.

As a reminder, if you’re vaccinated, have been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 5 days, and are not showing symptoms, you will get a red X when completing LiveSafe. This is intentional. If you fall into this category and get a red X, please do as the app instructs—contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss next steps. This additional layer of discussion allows the Seminary to better understand the larger picture and minimize health risk to our community. You may still be permitted to come to campus. You and the Dean/your supervisor will make this decision together.

As always, if you develop new symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 21-27.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is low; masks continue to be optional on campus. If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 5 days, you must wear a mask while on campus for 5 days following your exposure. And of course some folks in our community may choose to wear a mask for personal or health reasons regardless of community spread or exposure. 

Be well,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

LiveSafe

The LiveSafe app has been updated to align with the Seminary’s Health and Safety plan. Be sure to read carefully when completing the questions before arriving on campus. Don’t forget to complete the app whenever you come to campus because this is a critical component of our contact tracing strategy.

As a reminder, if you’re vaccinated, have been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 5 days, and are not showing symptoms, you will get a red X when completing LiveSafe. This is intentional. If you fall into this category and get a red X, please do as the app instructs—contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss next steps. This additional layer of discussion allows the Seminary to better understand the larger picture and minimize health risk to our community. You may still be permitted to come to campus. You and the Dean/your supervisor will make this decision together.

As always, if you develop new symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home.

Case Count

The Seminary had 4 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 14-20.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is medium; masks continue to be optional on campus. If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 5 days, you must wear a mask while on campus for 5 days following your exposure. And of course some folks in our community may choose to wear a mask for personal or health reasons regardless of community spread or exposure.  

Thank you for your patience as we continue to adapt to these times,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The updated COVID-19 boosters are formulated to better protect against the most recently circulating COVID-19 variant and are now available in Allegheny County. The boosters can help restore protection that has waned since previous vaccination and were designed to provide broader protection against newer variants. Please consider getting boosted. Contact your healthcare provider to discuss your options.

LiveSafe

The LiveSafe app has been updated to align with the Seminary’s Health and Safety plan. Be sure to read carefully when completely the questions before arriving on campus.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 7-13.

Mask Status

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County is low; masks continue to be optional on campus.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Change in Masking Policy

Because the Seminary has had 0 cases of COVID for 5 consecutive weeks, cases in Allegheny County have been declining for the same period of time, and we are a highly vaccinated group, PTS has updated our masking policy. When Allegheny County’s COVID-19 community level is high, masks will be required indoors on campus. When Allegheny County’s COVID-19 community level is medium or low, masks will be optional on campus. As of today, the County’s transmission level is medium; therefore masks are currently optional. The Cabinet will review the County’s level each week and adjust our masking requirement as needed. This information will be included in the weekly coronavirus update e-mail. Note: The Seminary remains in Phase 3b. Please remember to complete the LiveSafe app each time you’re on campus. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or are feeling unwell stay home.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Aug. 31-Sept. 6.

With thanks for your ongoing cooperation,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As we begin the academic year and welcome new friends to the community, it’s helpful to review a few COVID procedures.

1. At this time, masks are required when indoors on campus. Cabinet is reviewing this policy and will communicate any changes as needed.
2. Each day you’re on campus, you must complete the LiveSafe app before you arrive. This is a symptoms-based check. We kindly ask that if you’re feeling unwell or experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 that you stay home. https://livesafe.jotform.com/211685051786158
3. The LiveSafe questions will soon be changing to align with the Seminary’s updated Health and Safety Plan, which is on our website. We expect those changes in the next week. Please read the questions carefully before answering!
4. And as a reminder, you’ll find below the Seminary’s updated policies for what to do if you’ve tested positive or been exposed to COVID. These policies assume a mask requirement is not already in place.

What to Do if You’ve Tested Positive for COVID-19 (NEW!)

If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19:

1. Alert Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees);
2. Stay home for at least 5 days after your first symptoms or your positive test, whichever is earlier;
3. Wear a mask for 5 days upon returning to campus.

What to Do if You’ve Been Exposed (NEW!)

If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19:

1. And you’ve been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms you should;
   1. Wear a mask indoors in public for 5 days following exposure or until a negative test result;
   2. Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19;
   3. Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
2. And if you’re unvaccinated, you should:
   1. Quarantine for 5 days after your last exposure to the person.
   2. Wear a mask indoors in public for 5 days following your quarantine.
3. Persons in close contact will get a red X when completing the LiveSafe app. Please contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Aug. 24-30.

It was wonderful to see so many of you yesterday for convocation and lunch. Join me in praying for moments of reframing and rebooting in the year ahead.
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Health and Safety Plan

We’ve updated the Seminary’s Health and Safety plan, which you can read on the PTS website. The significant changes include policies for what to do if you’ve tested positive or been exposed to COVID-19 (see below for details), including the quarantine length and elimination of the 90-day window for unvaccinated persons. Please note, related changes are in the works to the LiveSafe app, so be sure to read each question carefully when completing the form.

What to Do if You’ve Tested Positive for COVID-19 (NEW!)

If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19:

1. Alert Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees);
2. Stay home for at least 5 days after your first symptoms or your positive test, whichever is earlier;
3. Wear a mask for 5 days upon returning to campus.

What to Do if You’ve Been Exposed (NEW!)

If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19:

1. And you’ve been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms you should;
   1. Wear a mask indoors in public for 5 days following exposure or until a negative test result;
   2. Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19;
   3. Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
2. And if you’re unvaccinated, you should:
   1. Quarantine for 5 days after your last exposure to the person.
   2. Wear a mask for 5 days upon returning to campus.
3. For the time being, persons in close contact will get a red X when completing the LiveSafe app. Please contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Aug. 17-23.

Join me in praying for a great—and safe—start to the new academic year!

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Though the community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County has returned to Medium, masking remains required regardless of vaccination status. Please be considerate of our students, employees, and visitors and properly wear your mask while in public spaces. Also, remember to complete the LiveSafe health check each time you’re on campus. This is a symptoms-based check to ensure you’re feeling well before coming to PTS.

The Cabinet continues to review current policies and will announce any needed changes while we continue to operate in Phase 3b and adjust to life where COVID is an ongoing reality and new variants continue to emerge.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Aug. 10-16.

Thanks for your cooperation,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The community level of COVID-19 in Allegheny County has increased to high. While indoors on campus, mask-wearing continues to be required regardless of vaccination status. Please be considerate of our students, employees, and visitors and properly wear your mask while in public spaces. Also, remember to complete the LiveSafe health check each time you’re on campus. This is a symptoms-based check to ensure you’re feeling well before coming to PTS.

The Cabinet continues to review current policies and will announce any needed changes while we continue to operate in Phase 3b and adjust to life where COVID is an ongoing reality and new variants continue to emerge.

Case Count

The Seminary had 0 cases of COVID-19 for the week of Aug. 3-9.

Thanks for your cooperation,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Phase 3b

The Seminary remains in Phase 3b and we expect that to be the case going into the fall semester. The Cabinet will perform a complete review of all existing COVID protocols, our Health and Safety plan, and the LiveSafe app before the semester begins and update anything as needed.

Case Count

The Seminary had 5 cases of COVID-19 for the week of July 27-Aug. 2. As this highly transmissible variant continues to spread across the country, please remain vigilant—wash your hands, wear your mask, and don’t come campus if you’re experiencing symptoms, which include runny nose, cough, sore throat, fever, headaches, muscle pain, and fatigue.

Stay well,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of July 20-26.

Be well,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of July 13-19.

Enjoy this week of summer weather,
Asa Lee, President

Dear PTS Community,

There were two campus cases of COVID-19 in the last week. Please continue to pay close attention to your symptoms and stay home if you’re experiencing any.

With COVID cases being on the rise in Allegheny County, now is a good time to make sure you’re up to date with your vaccinations. The latest information can be found on the CDC website here. The CDC recommends one booster for most people and two boosters for people over 50.

Stay safe, all!

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of June 29-July 5.

Hope your long weekend was restorative,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Mobile COVID Testing Available on Campus

Each Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. a Curative van is parked in front of Long Hall. Curative offers free, walk-up (no appointment needed), PCR COVID tests. Results are typically available in 1 to 2 days. This is one of many mobile testing sites throughout the city. We encourage you to take advantage of this service if you’re experiencing symptoms and to recommend that friends and neighbors do the same. Learn more on the Curative website: https://curative.com/.

Reported Case Count
The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of June 22-28.

Enjoy the sunshine,
Asa Lee, President

There was 1 on-campus COVID case for the week of June 16-21.

Please stay safe and cool!
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Reported Case Count
The Seminary had 2 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of June 8-15.

Be well,
Asa

PTS Community,

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of June 1-7.

I’m at the Hampton Ministers’ Conference this week. It’s good to be at my alma mater and among colleagues in ministry—vaccinated and wearing our masks of course. I hope you’re able to find moments of rest and relaxation this summer and look forward to some of my own with family.

Asa

June 1, 2022

PTS Community,

What a joy it was to gather last week to celebrate the Classes of 2022, 2021, and 2020! Again, my thanks to all who made commencement a wonderful occasion. Thank you for your cooperation in completing the LiveSafe app, wearing your mask, and doing your part to keep our community well.

As of May 27, Allegheny County is again experiencing a high community transmission level of COVID-19. Masks continue to be required on campus. Also, please consider wearing a mask indoors in public when you’re out and about, stay up to date on vaccines, and get tested immediately if you’re experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of May 25-31.

Peace,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As a reminder, please note that since masks are currently required indoors on campus that they will be required for all commencement festivities—rehearsal, brunch, on the shuttles, during the service, etc. Graduates, please be sure to make your guests aware of our policy. Additionally, each attendee must complete the LiveSafe app and show proof of a green check before attending the service. Folks can complete the health check in advance or at the door.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 2 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of May 18-24.

Looking forward to celebrating our graduates this Friday,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As we look forward to commencement, please note that since masks are currently required indoors on campus that they will be required for all festivities—rehearsal, brunch, on the shuttles, during the service, etc. Graduates, please be sure to make your guests aware of our policy. Additionally, each attendee must complete the LiveSafe app and show proof of a green check before attending the service. Folks can complete the health check in advance or at the door. We look forward to celebrating together!

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of May 11-17.

With thanks,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

It’s been a busy week on campus so far. And it’s been great to see so many of you—even if masked and from a distance.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of May 4-10.

Peace,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As a reminder, masks are now required on campus. Cases continue to increase in Allegheny County and are present on campus.

What to Do If You’ve Tested Positive

If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19:

• Alert Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees);
• Stay home for at least 10 days after your first symptoms or your positive test, whichever is earlier;
• Wear a mask for 10 days upon returning to campus.

What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed

If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19,

• And you’ve been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms you should,
  • Wear a mask indoors in public for 10 days following exposure or until a negative test result.
  • Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
  • Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• And if you’re unvaccinated and have not had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you should
  • quarantine for 10 days after your last exposure to the person.
• And if you’re unvaccinated but have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you should
  • follow the same protocols as vaccinated persons who have been exposed to someone with COVID.
• For the time being, persons in close contact will get a red X when completing the LiveSafe app. Please contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 3 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of April 27-May 3.

Peace,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Due to the uptick in cases in Allegheny County and the number of cases at PTS, masks are now required while indoors on campus. As a reminder, masks are available in the Reception Office. N95, KN95, and surgical masks are most effective against the spread of COVID-19. Please wear one of those varieties.

What to Do If You’ve Tested Positive

If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19:

• Alert Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees);
• Stay home for at least 10 days after your first symptoms or your positive test, whichever is earlier;
• Wear a mask for 10 days upon returning to campus.

What to Do if You’ve Been Exposed

If you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19,

• And you’ve been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms you should,
  • Wear a mask indoors in public for 10 days following exposure or until a negative test result.
  • Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
  • Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• And if you’re unvaccinated and have not had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you should
  • quarantine for 10 days after your last exposure to the person.
• And if you’re unvaccinated but have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days, you should
  • follow the same protocols as vaccinated persons who have been exposed to someone with COVID.
• For the time being, persons in close contact will get a red X when completing the LiveSafe app. Please contact Dean Teter (students) or your supervisor (employees) to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 4 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of April 20-26.

Thank you for your ongoing flexibility and cooperation as conditions change,

Asa Lee, President

April 20, 2022

PTS Community,

Hope you had a wonderful Easter!

Masks Recommended

For multiple consecutive weeks Allegheny County has seen significant increases in COVID-19 case counts and positivity rates. For these reasons we’re now recommending that you wear a mask while in public indoor spaces on campus. Additionally, alums will be gathering on campus the next few days. Many of these folks are in the high risk age category. Please be a good neighbor and wear your mask for their health and safety.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 3 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of April 13-19.

As we previously communicated, fluctuations in local conditions may necessitate alterations to our masking, gatherings, and other policies, up to and including changes in operational phases. We appreciate your cooperation as we make these needed shifts.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

The Cabinet continues to monitor cases of COVID-19, positivity rates, and hospitalizations in Allegheny County. We’re aware of changing indoor mask mandates in Philadelphia. We will continue to follow CDC guidance, and since Allegheny County has a low level of community spread, masks are not required at this time. Should protocols change, we will let you know.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of April 6-12.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful Easter,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

LiveSafe Daily Health Check

When completing the daily health check, please use good judgement while assessing your personal symptoms and wellness. If you feel unwell, stay home! If you have a chronic condition that may result in symptoms similar to COVID-19, consider that when answering the questions. As an example, if you have seasonal allergies and are currently experiencing a runny nose, you may want to wear your mask while on campus and/or take a weekly at-home COVID test since it may be difficult to determine if you have allergies or COVID. If you have symptoms and questions about whether you should come to campus, contact your supervisor (employees) or associate dean for students and formation (students).

Updated Health and Safety Plan

We’ve updated the Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan, which now includes a description of Phase 3b. As COVID shifts to an endemic disease, the plan outlines general protocols for each phase. We do not anticipate needing additional phases, but may need to shift between them depending on public health conditions. PTS will continue to follow CDC recommendations regarding masking, vaccinations, and operational phases. Read the plan in the right column.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of March 23-29.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation as we navigate this time together,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community, 

The Cabinet is working to update the Seminary's Health and Safety plan, which we anticipate releasing next week. Though we don't anticipate instituting new protocols, we may need to shift between operational phases based on future public health conditions. 

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of March 16-22.

Take care,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As a reminder, we’re now in Phase 3b, which means you should continue to complete the LiveSafe app each time you’re on campus, masks are optional, we’ve discontinued testing for unvaccinated people, telework and HyFlex learning continue, events with groups of 20+ need prior approval, and community organizations can now request to use campus resources. Visitors to campus should continue to report to the Reception Office upon arrival to complete the health check. Please monitor your own health and stay home if you’re feeling unwell for any reason. We are keeping an eye on cases in Allegheny County and news of any variants that may necessitate a change to our operational phase. Also note that we’re continuing to adjust the LiveSafe app questions to align with current policies, so be sure to read carefully the questions each day when completing your check.

Academic Year 2022-2023 Plans

The faculty met last week to map out plans for the Seminary’s future curriculum delivery modes. While discussions are ongoing, we anticipate sharing news in April regarding the fall semester and beyond. Be on the lookout for more information.  

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of March 9-15.

Enjoy the Spring weather in Pittsburgh,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Due to the board meeting and faculty work session, there isn’t much of an update this week. Instead, we repeat the details of the move to Phase 3b, starting on Tuesday.

Campus Reopening Phase 3b

For the last 6 weeks, Allegheny County has seen significant (30+ percent) decreases in cases of COVID-19. Positivity rates and hospitalizations due to COVID are also down. The CDC now puts Allegheny County in the low community spread level. Pittsburgh Seminary students, staff, and faculty are a highly vaccinated group, and we’ve done a great job of monitoring symptoms and staying home if we’re feeling unwell. For all these reasons, the Seminary will enter into Phase 3b of our reopening plan as of March 15. What does this mean?

• As of March 15, you will continue to complete the LiveSafe app each time you’re on campus. As you know, this is a symptom-based check. If you’re feeling unwell, please continue to learn and work from home as needed.
• As per recent CDC guidelines, masks are no longer required, though we certainly encourage those who feel more comfortable masking to continue to do so.
• HyFlex learning will continue throughout the semester.
• The Seminary’s telework policy will remain in place at least through the end of the semester.
• Weekly testing will be discontinued for unvaccinated students and employees.
• Room capacity will return to 100 percent.
• Events with 20+ people continue to need prior Cabinet approval and may be subject to specific masking guidance depending on risk factors to the community. Note that the Cabinet is working to update our Facilities Use Policy, which outlines guidelines for internal and external groups’ use of campus resources.
• The Cabinet is working to update our Health and Safety Plan with these new guidelines.
• Note that these plans will continue as long as Allegheny County remains in the CDC’s low community rate level. We will continue to monitor local case counts plus CDC and Allegheny County Health Department guidelines, and will adjust our protocols as needed as we learn to live with this endemic disease.

Commencement – Anticipated In-Person

We anticipate that the Seminary’s 2022 commencement will be held Fri., May 27 at 3:00 p.m. at East Liberty Presbyterian Church in person! Please note the change in time from our typical evening service. As has become tradition, we will celebrate with the full community during brunch that day. Be on the lookout for a full schedule to arrive in your inbox soon.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of March 2-8. 

With hope,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

This week we write with good news!

Campus Reopening Phase 3b

For the last 6 weeks, Allegheny County has seen significant (30+ percent) decreases in cases of COVID-19. Positivity rates and hospitalizations due to COVID are also down. The CDC now puts Allegheny County in the low community spread level. Pittsburgh Seminary students, staff, and faculty are a highly vaccinated group, and we’ve done a great job of monitoring symptoms and staying home if we’re feeling unwell. For all these reasons, the Seminary will enter into Phase 3b of our reopening plan as of March 15. What does this mean?

• As of March 15, you will continue to complete the LiveSafe app each time you’re on campus. As you know, this is a symptom-based check. If you’re feeling unwell, please continue to learn and work from home as needed.
• As per recent CDC guidelines, masks are no longer required, though we certainly encourage those who feel more comfortable masking to continue to do so.
• HyFlex learning will continue throughout the semester.
• The Seminary’s telework policy will remain in place at least through the end of the semester.
• Weekly testing will be discontinued for unvaccinated students and employees.
• Room capacity will return to 100 percent.
• Events with 20+ people continue to need prior Cabinet approval and may be subject to specific masking guidance depending on risk factors to the community. Note that the Cabinet is working to update our Facilities Use Policy, which outlines guidelines for internal and external groups’ use of campus resources.
• The Cabinet is working to update our Health and Safety Plan with these new guidelines.
• Note that these plans will continue as long as Allegheny County remains in the CDC’s low community rate level. We will continue to monitor local case counts plus CDC and Allegheny County Health Department guidelines, and will adjust our protocols as needed as we learn to live with this endemic disease.

Commencement – Anticipated In-Person

We anticipate that the Seminary’s 2022 commencement will be held Fri., May 27 at 3:00 p.m. at East Liberty Presbyterian Church in person! Please note the change in time from our typical evening service. As has become tradition, we will celebrate with the full community during brunch that day. Be on the lookout for a full schedule to arrive in your inbox soon.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 23-March 1. 

With hope,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Just a brief update this week. The Cabinet continues to monitor weekly trends in COVID-19 cases in Allegheny County.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 16-22.  

Stay well,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As COVID-19 begins to move from pandemic to endemic, we are monitoring CDC and Allegheny County Health Department guidance to determine what the next normal will look like for life at the Seminary. For the time being, our safety protocols remain the same—daily LiveSafe check, mandatory masks, social distancing, testing the unvaccinated, and pre-approval for gatherings of 20+ folks. As decisions are made about updating these protocols, we’ll keep you informed.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 9-15.  

Enjoy the sunshine in Pittsburgh today,
Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Following the spike of Omicron and related protocol changes, cases of COVID-19 are decreasing in Allegheny County and we seem to be settling into a calmer time. That said, we must continue to be vigilant in masking, distancing, and monitoring for symptoms.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Feb. 2-8.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

HEERF III Funds Allocation

Through an application process, by the end of February 66 masters, DMin, and certificate students will be awarded additional HEERF III funds made available from the federal government. Awards range from $178-$325 per student.

LiveSafe App Questions

As a reminder, please be sure to carefully read the LiveSafe app questions each time you complete the daily health check. The shifting pandemic continues to necessitate changes to the questions. For instance, one question now reads “Have you been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 OR have had a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the past 90 days?” The answer is “yes” if you have EITHER been fully vaccinated OR had COVID in the past 90 days as the CDC now considers these people to be equally protected about the coronavirus.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 26-Feb. 1.

Stay well,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Return to Phase 3a

Beginning Tues., Feb. 1, the Seminary will return to Phase 3a, which means campus life will look like it did in the fall. Students will continue to learn through HyFlex models. Employees are asked to follow the current telework policy, which states folks are expected to work from campus Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as their job allows. Food service will resume. The Library will be open to the public. And the Museum will begin offering tours by appointment (during regular Museum hours). Overnight housing will be open to PTS students and employees. Employees, if you do not feel comfortable returning to campus, please contact your supervisor. Our mitigation strategies remain in place: complete the daily LiveSafe check, wear your mask (N95 or KN95 strongly recommended), keep your distance, wash your hands, if you don’t feel well stay home.

Updated Health and Safety Plan

The Seminary’s health and safety plan has been updated on our website and now includes the latest protocols. (See right column, Pittsburgh Seminary Health and Safety Plan.) Please review it as procedural questions arise.

Events on Campus
Though large gatherings and public events are largely occurring online these days, Seminary groups are welcome to host in-person events so long as they follow the Seminary’s COVID protocols and put forth in advance a health and safety plan of action. Please see the documents sent to your e-mail Jan. 26, 2022, for guidelines regarding in-person events. As a reminder, groups of 20+ (except class and worship) need Cabinet approval. When considering these events on a case-by-case basis, the Cabinet will use its collective judgement about whether the event can occur in-person.

Looking forward to beginning the Spring semester with you,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Free Tests Now Available

As you’ve likely heard, free at-home COVID-19 tests are now available from the government, and private insurances must cover the cost for these tests. Each address is eligible to order 4 tests. Orders usually ship in 7-12 days. Visit https://www.covidtests.gov/ to request your free tests. This is another mitigation tool to help slow the spread of COVID-19, so please order your supply. Employees with Aetna insurance, please see the e-mail from Kathleen Green sent Jan. 19 for more information.

Updated Exposure Policy

At this time, the Seminary will continue to follow the previously released CDC guidance for folks who have been exposed to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, which reads:

Anyone who has had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should quarantine for 10 days after their last exposure to that person, except if they have been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms of COVID-19. However, fully vaccinated close contacts should:

• Wear a mask indoors in public for 10 days following exposure or until a negative test result.
• Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• For the time being, vaccinated persons in close contact will get a red X when completing the LiveSafe app. Please contact your supervisor or associate dean of students to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus.

NEW: Any unvaccinated person who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days should follow the same protocols as vaccinated persons who have been exposed to someone with COVID. This is in accordance with current CDC guidelines. The 90 day count is based on the first day that you displayed symptoms.

As a reminder, close contact is defined by the CDC as “someone who was less than 6 feet away from an infected person (laboratory-confirmed or a clinical diagnosis) for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. For example, three individual 5-minute exposures for a total of 15 minutes.” Learn more about close contact.

We have changed the quarantine period from 14 to 10 days to align with the Seminary’s Health and Safety plan.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 12-18.

If you’re in Pittsburgh these days, stay warm!

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Updated Exposure Policy

At this time, the Seminary will continue to follow the previously released CDC guidance for folks who have been exposed to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, which reads:

Anyone who has had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should quarantine for 10 days after their last exposure to that person, except if they have been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms of COVID-19. However, fully vaccinated close contacts should:

• Wear a mask indoors in public for 10 days following exposure or until a negative test result.
• Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• For the time being, vaccinated persons in close contact will get a red X when completing the LiveSafe app. Please contact your supervisor or associate dean of students to discuss your specific situation and next steps before coming to campus.

As a reminder, close contact is defined by the CDC as “someone who was less than 6 feet away from an infected person (laboratory-confirmed or a clinical diagnosis) for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. For example, three individual 5-minute exposures for a total of 15 minutes.” Learn more about close contact.

We have changed the quarantine period from 14 to 10 days to align with the Seminary’s Health and Safety plan.

Also, please be aware that the Cabinet is currently reviewing the full plan and will continue to make updates in light of new variants and new guidance.

HEERF III Funds

Currently enrolled students will soon be able to apply for additional HEERF III emergency funds. Watch for an e-mail from associate director of financial aid Ryan Jensema for more information about the application process.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 3 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Jan. 5-11.

We appreciate your ongoing flexibility as we adapt to this changing situation,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Through Jan. 28, the Seminary will continue operating in a modified Phase 3a.

• Employees, you’re encouraged to continue teleworking.
• AIM and DMin cohorts will meet HyFlex, so those who choose will be learning in person.
• There will be no Metz food service.
• The Library will be open for faculty, staff, and students according to the e-mail sent earlier this week from Michelle Spomer. Entry will require badge access. The public will have access to digital resources only.
• The Museum will remain closed to the public.
• We will not host any in-person public events.

The Cabinet will revisit this operational plan in late January and make decisions regarding the Spring Semester.

Stay well,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Thanks for your patience this week as we continue to make adjustments due to the pandemic. As has been the case since late February 2020, we are making decisions with two main goals in mind: keep our community safe and allow our students to complete their coursework on time.

N95 Masks

As we noted earlier this week, research shows that N95, KN95, and surgical masks are most effective against the coronavirus, particularly the new variant. Please consider upgrading your mask if you haven’t done so already.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 29-Jan. 4.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As you’ve seen in the news, the Omicron variant is rapidly spreading around the world. Many folks gathered for holiday celebrations and others have been traveling. As a way to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Seminary will be operating in a modified Phase 3a. These protocols are relevant for Jan. 4-8, 2022, unless otherwise noted. We will reassess if these plans should continue beyond this timeframe and let you know.  

Employees

Employees are strongly encouraged to work from home through Jan. 4-10, 2022. Essential employees should report to campus. If you’re unsure if you should report, please contact your supervisor.

Master’s Online Learning

Students in the MI-130 course will be meeting online this week. The New York City travel has already been canceled at the request of our host organization. If changes are needed to the U.S./Mexico trip, we will alert you as soon as possible. Students who are unable to travel for whatever reason can complete the coursework through alternative arrangements.

Classes that were already scheduled to meet online will continue online.

DMin/AIM Cohorts

A number of DMin and AIM cohorts are scheduled to meet in January on campus. At this time, these cohorts can still gather in person—though plans may change. As a reminder, the Seminary is committed to offering HyFlex learning for all students throughout the Spring semester. The Seminary encourages you to attend remotely and will accommodate in-person learning. Please contact your program leadership (DMin: Click to view e-mail, AIM: krohrer@pts.edu) about your plans to attend in person or remote. Also note, the Seminary may institute additional mitigation tools, such as testing, before cohorts gather.

Returning to Campus

Don’t forget that you must complete the LiveSafe app daily health check each time you’re on campus. If you are returning to campus this week, we strongly encourage you to get a COVID test at least 48 hours in advance. (We recognize this is not possible for essential employees reporting to campus tomorrow.) Also, please consider wearing a KN95 mask while on campus. Research has shown this is the most effective readily available mask for the public. As always, the vaccine and booster remain our best line of defense against serious illness from this virus. And if you are feeling unwell, please stay home!

Events on Campus

There will be no public events on campus this week, whether hosted by a PTS or tenant organizations.

Library

Library services will be available by appointment for PTS students, staff, and faculty this week. The library will be closed to the public during this time. Watch for a separate e-mail with more information about library operations.

Museum

The Museum will likewise be closed to the public this week.

Food Service

Food service will be unavailable this week.

Change in CDC Guidance

We recognize that the CDC recently changed its guidance based on vaccination status for those exposed to the coronavirus and/or tested positive for COVID-19. At this time, the Seminary will continue to follow the previously released guidance, which reads:

Close contact is defined by the CDC as “someone who was less than 6 feet away from an infected person (laboratory-confirmed or a clinical diagnosis) for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. For example, three individual 5-minute exposures for a total of 15 minutes.” Learn more about close contact.

Anyone who has had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should quarantine for 14 days after their last exposure to that person, except if they have been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms of COVID-19. However, fully vaccinated close contacts should:

• Wear a mask indoors in public for 14 days following exposure or until a negative test result.
• Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Happy New Year to you and yours,

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Boosters

As more data becomes available about the Omicron variant, it’s clear that the vaccine booster is another needed line of defense—in addition to masking, social distancing, and hand washing. Boosters are readily available at local pharmacies. Find a location near you: https://www.vaccines.gov/.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 8-14.

We do not anticipate sending a coronavirus update next week.

Students, I’m wishing you the best as you wrap up the semester. And I’m wishing you all a wonderful, restorative, and healthy Christmas and new year!

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Seminary Travel

At this time, employees and students are still permitted to travel for Seminary purposes. We’re keeping an eye on the omicron variant and will follow CDC guidance should travel restrictions change. Please know that we are working to ensure the safety of our intercultural learning experience participants as they head to New York City and the U.S./Mexico border in January. We are working through a number of contingency plans should they be needed.

COVID Testing

As you likely know, pharmacy chains such as Rite Aid, CVS, and Walgreens, and urgent care facilities such as MedExpress typically offer free COVID testing (some by appointment, some walk-in, some drive-thru). Did you know that Curative also offers PCR tests with typical turnaround times of 1-2 days? Learn more about their services and locations: https://curative.com/.

Also, you may want to consider having an over the counter test at home should you need it. OTC test kits are a bit difficult to obtain right now, but can be particularly helpful. Apologies, but the Seminary is not able to provide those home tests at this time.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 1-7.

As things continue to shift with COVID, remember other things stay the same—wash your hands, wear your mask, keep your distance, and get your vaccine and/or booster.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

As you know, the pandemic continues to shift with new variants, the recommendation of booster shots, and CDC guidance. We are mindful of these new developments and are monitoring the situation. If something necessitates a change in our safety protocols, we will let you know.

In-Person Events on Campus

As a reminder, Seminary groups and departments may offer in-person events for more than 20 people with permission from the Cabinet. The Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan outlines the following procedure:

“Permission will be granted on a case-by-case basis for meetings exceeding 20 people. Requests must be made at least two weeks in advance. Worship and classes are not subject to the same size limits. In accordance with current CDC and government guidelines, there are no maximum capacity limits for outdoor gatherings. Unvaccinated persons must wear a mask at both indoor and outdoor gatherings.”

To ensure the safety of campus visitors and our community, host organizations must have a plan in place to inform guests of the LiveSafe app, be prepared to review the results (green check/red X) upon arrival, enforce the use of masks, allow for social distancing, and have COVID-safe ways of serving food and beverages if applicable. In-person events will only be considered if these safety plans are sufficient and presented in advance.

What to Do if Exposed to the Virus

If you’ve been in close content with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, please remember the following.

Close contact is defined by the CDC as “someone who was less than 6 feet away from an infected person (laboratory-confirmed or a clinical diagnosis) for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. For example, three individual 5-minute exposures for a total of 15 minutes.” Learn more about close contact.

Anyone who has had close contact with someone with COVID-19 should quarantine for 14 days after their last exposure to that person, except if they have been fully vaccinated and show no symptoms of COVID-19. However, fully vaccinated close contacts should:

• Wear a mask indoors in public for 14 days following exposure or until a negative test result.
• Get tested 5-7 days after close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Get tested and isolate immediately if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Learn more:

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 24-30.

Thank you for your good work to keep one another safe.

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 17-23.

Visitor Policy Reminder

• All visitors are required to complete the LiveSafe app health check to be on campus. They can complete the form online: https://livesafe.jotform.com/211685051786158.
• Visitors must be vaccinated or have received a negative COVID-19 test in the past seven days.
• Visitors should park in the visitor parking available in front of Long Hall and enter through the main doors. They should proceed to the Reception Desk to complete the health check if needed and to meet their host (that’s you!).
• These protocols are in place to keep our community safe, and we kindly ask that you follow them when hosting visitors on campus—even visitors familiar with PTS or your office/meeting location.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Asa Lee, President

PTS Community,

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 10-16.

Last week we were able to host the inauguration in-person and to do it safely because of our COVID protocols, including masks and the LiveSafe app health check for all visitors. Thank you for continuing to do your part for the health and safety of our community.

Thanks to each of you,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

While there isn’t much news for us to report, we advise that you continue wearing your mask, washing your hands, and keeping your distance.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Nov. 3-9.

Stay well,

Dr. Lee

PTS Community,

Spring Semester Planning

Earlier the Seminary determined that the full 2021-2022 academic year would be offered through HyFlex or fully online courses. The Spring Semester will look much like the Fall with students and instructors coming together in-person and online. The faulty are working to determine the exact delivery mode for each Spring course, and that information will be distributed soon.

In early December, the Cabinet will begin the conversation about when the Seminary might be ready to move into Phase 3b of our reopening plan. At this time we remain in Phase 3a, which means the campus is open, visitors must enter through the Long Hall front entrance, in-person gatherings with more than 25 people require approval, external groups are not using the Seminary’s campus (generally speaking), telework continues, HyFlex or fully remote classes are happening, and all COVID safety protocols remain in place, including masks, testing for unvaccinated employees and students, and daily health checks.  

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 27-Nov. 2.

With appreciation,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 20-Oct. 26.

Though cases in Allegheny County continue to rise (largely due to cases in juveniles), the Seminary is holding steady with 0 cases this week. I believe this is due in large part to our COVID protocols—masks, daily health checks, flexibility in where we work and learn—and our high vaccination rate. Thank you, thank you for continuing to do your part for the health and safety of our community.

Grateful to be serving with you,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Completing the LiveSafe App

As a reminder, when completing the LiveSafe app daily health check, please carefully read the questions. A number of folks have received a red X in error. All red Xs—including those due to user error—set off a set of protocols to ensure the campus remains safe.

HEERF III Funds to Students

The Seminary received 61 applications from master’s and doctoral students for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds III. Award amounts range from $440-$870 per student with an average award of $672. The Business Office is currently working to process these checks for students.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 13-Oct. 19.

Be well,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Across the world, COVID-19 continues to cause sickness, hospitalization, and sometimes death. We must remain vigilant in our good practices of proper hand hygiene, wearing a mask, and keeping our distance from one another. And getting vaccinated is the best defense against serious illness and further spread. The combination of these mitigation efforts has allowed our community to have low case counts to this point.

As we are in allergy season and will soon enter cold and flu season, please continue to be honest when completing the LiveSafe health check. Your symptoms could be an allergy or cold, or they could be COVID-19. For the sake of the larger community, please stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Oct. 6-Oct. 12.

I give thanks for this community,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 29-Oct. 5. Thank you for your continued vigilance to keep one another safe.

It was great to see so many of you today at Oktoberfest!

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Although we’ve had a handful of COVID-19 cases on campus this fall, to this point it appears that our protocols have been effective in preventing the spread of the disease in our community. When a positive case is reported, the infected person quarantines, close contacts are notified of their possible exposure, and then they are tested 3-5 days later. So far, none of the people in contact with the infected persons have tested positive. So, thank you for getting vaccinated, wearing your masks, being mindful of social distancing, and completing the daily health check. The well-being of our community depends on it!

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 22-28. The person was a visitor, was here for a very brief time, and left campus after testing positive.

It’s a beautiful fall day in the neighborhood, and I hope you’re able to enjoy it.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Additional Funds Available for Students

The Seminary is making funds available to enrolled and leave of absence students from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III. As was the case with HEERF I and II allocations, students negatively affected by COVID-19 will need to complete a simple online form to apply for the funds. These monies will be available in early November. Students, watch for an e-mail with complete details from Associate Director of Financial Aid Ryan Jensema in the coming days.  

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 15-21. The people who were in close contact with the infected person have been notified and are following the Seminary’s policies and CDC guidelines.

It was wonderful to gather with so many neighbors on Tuesday for our convocation service,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Feeling Unwell?

As a reminder, if you’re feeling unwell—particularly with the symptoms of COVID-19—please stay home. According to the CDC and the WHO, COVID-19 symptoms include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Funds Available

COVID continues to impact our everyday lives. Students, if you find that you’re in need of additional funds for expenses because of COVID-related issues or other life challenges, please remember that the Seminary has emergency funding available through the Financial Aid Office, including emergency grants and the Swart Fund. Additionally, students will be able to apply for emergency grants through HEERF-III funds allocated to the institution. More details about how to apply will be sent out in the weeks to come. Further information about these funds is available on the website or by contacting Dean Teter.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 8-14.

Stay well,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Vaccination Status

Great news! Our staff, faculty, and students are highly vaccinated against COVID-10. Vaccination rate for our employees is 93 percent. Of the students who have submitted their status, 93 percent are also vaccinated. Thanks to those people who have completed their vaccination status check and proof of vaccination. If you have not yet completed the necessary steps, please do so ASAP. Visit MyPTS (https://my.pts.edu/ICS/) and log in. Staff and faculty, click on the “Business Office/HR” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Vaccination Card Upload Form” at the top of the left column. Then click “Upload COVID Vaccination Card.” Students, click on the “Students” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Vaccination Card Upload Form” at the top of the left column. Then click “Upload COVID Vaccination Card.” Knowing our community’s vaccination status allows us to make more informed decisions and work to keep one another safe.

Moving Between Phases of Campus Access

When the Seminary moves between phases (1-3b) of campus access, the decision will be based on three criteria: significant changes in number of cases, PCR positivity rate, and hospitalizations week-to-week.

Adjusting to the New Normal

As we all continue to adjust to our new normal, please be mindful that employees and students may need to work or learn from home on occasion for a variety of reasons including feeling unwell, exposure to the virus, awaiting test results, sick family members, and beyond. As a community we know that we can carry out our mission from off-campus locations. Even if employees are not in the office in these instances, they remain accessible by phone and e-mail. We appreciate your patience with one another as we continue to adjust to life in a pandemic.

Testing on Campus

As a matter of policy, the Seminary is not a testing site except for routine monitoring for the unvaccinated. If you believe you’ve been exposed to the virus on campus, we will work with folks on a case-by-case basis to direct you to testing options.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of Sept. 1-7.

With appreciation,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Happy September! (How can that be?!) As you know, the pandemic situation continues to shift each day. The Seminary is adjusting accordingly.

Mask Requirement

Effective Sept. 1, a universal mask requirement will be in effect with the following exemption: for persons actively leading worship and/or actively leading course instruction with 6 feet or more of distance, unmasking is allowed. Persons unmasked in those instances must maintain their position of 6 feet or greater and limit their movement while unmasked.

LiveSafe App

Thanks to each of you who have completed the LiveSafe app. Please note that as conditions change the Seminary updates the questions on the app. Be sure to read the questions carefully during each use! Consider completing the app early in the day before you arrive on campus. Employees, if you receive a red X, contact your supervisor. Students, if you receive a red X, please do NOT come to campus. Notify your professor(s) that you’ll be attending class remotely. All classes are offered either hybrid or fully online. If you’re certain you’ve received the red X due to user error (clicked the wrong buttons for example), complete the form again and only come to campus if you’ve gotten a green check mark. If you’re feeling unwell, please stay home. As you know, this tool is another way for us to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and to conduct contact tracing when needed.

Dining on Campus

As masks must be removed when eating and drinking, please be mindful of keeping social distancing when dining on campus, whether in Kadel or another indoor space.

Business Office Change in Hours

The Seminary’s Business Office is now open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 9:00-11:30 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m. Mondays, Fridays, and evenings are by appointment only.

COVID Protocols

The Seminary continues to adapt to the pandemic. All employees and students must follow current pandemic protocols as a condition of employment and enrollment. We sincerely thank you for your willingness to following protocols designed to keep our community safe and our campus open.

Case Report

Starting with this e-mail, we’ll now report the Seminary’s weekly COVID-19 case count. Faculty, staff, students, residents, and visitors who have been on campus in the last 10 days will be tallied in the count. From Aug. 25-31, the Seminary had 5 cases on campus. All persons known to be exposed have been made aware and are following all CDC protocols.

Thank you for continuing to adapt with us,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Welcome back! It’s great to have so many folks on campus this week. We’re looking forward to welcoming our new students over these next three days of Orientation and seeing even more faces next week when classes begin.

Masks

As a reminder, unvaccinated persons are required and vaccinated persons are strongly encouraged to wear a mask indoors while in public spaces—hallways, bathrooms, meeting locations, etc. Unless you’re in a private space alone, please wear your mask! Unvaccinated persons are also required to wear a mask outside when social distancing is not possible.

Health and Safety Plan

The Seminary’s Health and Safety plan has been updated to reflect Phase 3a of our reopening plan, our new COVID-19 testing policies for unvaccinated employees and students, and changes in CDC guidance. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the plan, which you can read at the top of the right column.

COVID-Testing Policy

Unvaccinated employees and students must be tested weekly for COVID-19. The Seminary’s policies are in the Appendix of the Health of the Safety plan. Students with questions should contact Dean Teter, and employees with questions should contact Kathleen Green.

Event Guidelines and Recommended Caterers

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges to safely gathering groups on campus. Please review the Seminary’s guidelines for gatherings/events/meetings. As always, the health and safety of students, staff, faculty, and the larger community remain our highest priority. The Seminary will update these guidelines as needed depending on public health conditions. Reminder: If gatherings include more than 20 people on campus, the event must be approved by Cabinet. Event requests must be received at least two weeks in advance. All gatherings/events/meetings, including those outdoors, should be recorded in 25Live.

Also, please use the list of recommended caterers. These are restaurants that the Seminary has previously work with, came recommended, and/or are small/minority-owned companies. Please consider these options when ordering food for your meeting or event. We anticipate that Metz will begin providing limited food service in September. However, catering orders should continue to be placed with these recommended vendors until advised otherwise.

Best wishes for a great Fall Semester!

Dr. Lee

Dear PTS Community,

Phase 3

Phase 3 is coming! On Aug. 23, the Seminary will enter Phase 3 of our reopening plan. That said, there’s a change worth noting. We’ll now be entering Phase 3a. During this time:

• We will not host in-person public events on campus. These events include those offered by the Seminary or neighborhood organizations. In-person events will be part of the Seminary’s Phase 3b. The date for Phase 3b will be announced when public health conditions allow us to gather safely.
• Anyone coming to campus (to learn, work, attend a meeting, visit the Library, etc.) must complete the LiveSafe app.
• As a reminder, unvaccinated people must be masked while indoors and outdoors if social distancing isn’t possible. Vaccinated persons are also invited to wear a mask.
• Unvaccinated students and employees must complete a free weekly COVID rapid test if they plan on being on campus for class, work, meetings, social gatherings, dining, etc.
• The telework policy is in effect. Employees who are able can continue teleworking on Mondays and Fridays.
• All student programming will be permitted in-person. As already noted, hybrid learning will be available for all courses.
• The Library will be open to faculty, staff, and students as well as the public. All visitors will need to be vaccinated or have received a negative test in the last 7 days. Patrons will provide this info via the LiveSafe app.
• The Museum will be open by appointment and group sizes will be limited. Again, visitors will complete the LiveSafe app.
• Overnight guest housing will be open for prospective and active students as well as employees.
• Food service will be available in the near future. It will not be open at the start of Phase 3a. Please be sure to plan accordingly.
• Gatherings of more than 20 people require Cabinet approval. 
• These are the policies of PTS and like all policies we as staff, faculty, and students are called to live in community and adhere to them for our shared safety. PTS reserves the right to amend or change this policy to reflect the current COVID Pandemic Health Guidelines in accordance with the CDC and recommendations at any time.   

Testing Unvaccinated Students and Employees

Beginning Aug. 23, weekly self-administered rapid tests are required for unvaccinated students and employees to be on campus. In the days ahead we’ll share the Seminary’s testing policy. If you have questions, please contact Associate Dean Ayana Teter or HR Manager Kathleen Green. Free testing will occur in the Seminary’s Shakarian Center, ground floor of Long Hall. Exact times for testing will be announced.

Proof of Vaccination

Thanks to all of you who have completed the vaccination status form on MyPTS. More than 80 percent of the faculty, staff, and students who have completed the vaccination status form are fully vaccinated. At this time, we also ask that you upload proof of vaccination. This can be done through MyPTS, which is secure. Visit MyPTS (https://my.pts.edu/ICS/) and log in. Staff and faculty, click on the “Business Office/HR” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Vaccination Card Upload Form” at the top of the left column. Then click “Upload COVID Vaccination Card.” Students, click on the “Students” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Vaccination Card Upload Form” at the top of the left column. Then click “Upload COVID Vaccination Card.” A limited number of PTS staff have access to this information, and it will only be viewed on a need-to-know basis.

Again, I deeply appreciate your patience as we continue to adjust our plans to this fluid situation. I look forward to seeing many of you in person next week.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Change in Vaccination Requirements

In light of rising COVID case counts and the spread of the delta variant, vaccinations and/or regular COVID tests will be required for staff, faculty, and students effective Aug. 23, 2021. Persons choosing to be unvaccinated must be tested for COVID-19 weekly in order to come to campus. Vaccinated persons are not required to be tested unless they have been exposed to the virus. Unvaccinated persons must continue to mask on campus and, as announced last week in accordance with CDC guidelines, vaccinated persons are strongly encouraged to mask on campus as well. The Cabinet and CRT take this step after significant deliberation on the changing nature of the community spread that is taking place in Allegheny County, the community feedback related to reimposing a mask requirement for the campus, and our strong desire to create a safe working and learning environment for those who return to campus for the start of the fall semester. 

Details on testing protocols are being finalized and will be published in advance of the Aug. 23 implementation date. If you have not yet completed the vaccination status form on MyPTS, we encourage you to complete the form now. Visit MyPTS (https://my.pts.edu/ICS/) and log in. Staff and faculty, click on the “Business Office/HR” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status form” at the top of the left column. Students, click on the “Students” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status form” at the top of the left column. Thanks to those of you who have already completed the form.

Phase 3 Update

As stated last week, the Coronavirus Response Team is actively considering adjustments to Phase 3 of the Health and Safety Plan, up to and including delaying our reopening scheduled for Aug. 23. We are assessing a constellation of data points specific to our institution to help us make the best decisions to enable the Seminary to continue its mission while also keeping our community safe. We will keep you informed.

We recognize this is a significant shift for us as a community, however it is an important step toward being able to return to campus safely. Thank you all for your patience as we navigate these difficult times.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Masks on Campus

Due to rising cases of COVID-19, including those caused by the delta variant, Allegheny County is now in the substantial level of transmission. Because research has shown that vaccinated people can spread the delta variant and also become infected, and in accordance with CDC guidelines, the Seminary is now strongly recommending that vaccinated individuals wear a mask while indoors on campus, particularly in public spaces and while in groups of any size. Unvaccinated persons continue to be required to wear a mask while indoors and outdoors when social distancing is not an option.

Phase 3 Update

The Coronavirus Response Team is actively considering adjustments to Phase 3 of the Health and Safety Plan, up to and including delaying our reopening scheduled for Aug. 23. We are assessing a constellation of data points specific to our institution to help us make the best decisions to enable the Seminary to continue its mission while also keeping our community safe. We will keep you informed.

Vaccination Status

As CRT continues to make decisions, it’s important that we know the vaccination rate within our community. Therefore, we’re asking all students, staff, and faculty to share their vaccination status. This must be done before Aug. 23. We encourage you to complete the form now. Visit MyPTS (https://my.pts.edu/ICS/) and log in. Staff and faculty, click on the “Business Office/HR” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status form” at the top of the left column. Students, click on the “Students” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status form” at the top of the left column. Thanks to those of you who have already completed the form.

As we continue to navigate these fluid times, we appreciate your ongoing patience. As always, if you have questions, please let us know.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

Delta Variant and Health and Safety Plan Reminders

In response to direct questions from the community and the increased spread of the Delta variant, the Coronavirus Response Team offers a few reminders:

• Seminary sponsored travel is currently permitted. If you plan to travel for work, please make your supervisor aware. You should use your best judgement and follow all CDC guidance when traveling—for work or leisure. The Seminary is not requiring anyone to travel at this time. If your position presents an opportunity to travel and you’re uncomfortable doing so, please talk with your supervisor and/or human resources.
• The Cabinet is mindful of and shares with you the CDC’s recently released guidance: “To reduce their risk of becoming infected with the Delta variant and potentially spreading it to others: CDC recommends that fully vaccinated people: Wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial or high transmission.” Allegheny County and southwest PA are defined as areas with moderate transmission.

Reporting Vaccination Status

As previously announced, we’re asking all students, staff, and faculty to share their vaccination status. This must be done before Aug. 23. We encourage you to complete the form now. Visit MyPTS (https://my.pts.edu/ICS/) and log in. Staff and faculty, click on the “Business Office/HR” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status form” at the top of the left column. Students, click on the “Students” tab across the top and then “COVID-19 Vaccination Status form” at the top of the left column.

LiveSafe App

As a reminder, if you plan to come to campus, complete the LiveSafe app questions, and receive a red X, you should contact your supervisor (faculty and staff), Dean Teter (students), or the event organizer (event participants). When completing the form, please answer the questions as they relate to COVID-19 symptoms and your typical overall health. For example, if you know your sniffles are related to seasonal allergies for which you take medication, or you typically have a slight fever due to an underlying health condition, or you know that your digestive issues are connected to recent food poisoning, consider these fact when answering the app questions. Of course a cautious approach is always best, and we encourage you to stay home if you’re not feeling well.

As we continue to live into the Seminary’s Phase 2 and anticipate Phase 3 (Aug. 23), please let us know if you have additional questions. We’re navigating this together.

Dr. Lee, President

July 21, 2021

Dear PTS Community,

At its meeting this week, the Coronavirus Response Team evaluated Phase 2 of reopening, which began on July 6. Thank you all for doing everything you have been doing to make this process go as smoothly as it has gone so far. As we get closer to the anticipated Phase 3 reopening date (Aug. 23), the CRT will release more information, including the various metrics it is using to guide its decisions. The CRT is reviewing data points like test positivity rates, vaccination rates, and community transmissibility, among others, as it prepares for an anticipated Phase 3 reopening.

The CRT also discussed reopening the Kadel Dining Room for Phase 3. We are in conversation with Metz, our catering vendor, about this possibility. While we cannot say much with certainty at this stage, it is unlikely that catering will be available through Metz. We will hopefully have more to say about regular food service soon!

Thank you again for your continued patience and prayers as we endeavor to open our campus safely for all,

Dr. Lee, President

Dear PTS Community,

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to evaluate policies for groups larger than 20 gathering on campus during Phase 3. Likewise, CRT is evaluating the criteria by which we will make future decisions about the Seminary’s open status and campus access if COVID-19 case counts spike in our area. As these decisions are made, we will share them with the community.

I pray that you find time this summer to relax and refresh.

All the best,

Dean Fuller

PTS Community,

Campus Access

During Phase 2, which began July 6, non-residence buildings—Chapel, Library, Long, and McNaugher—will be available via key card access to employees and students. Staff and faculty can access the buildings 24/7. Students can access the buildings Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. As always, you can call security (412-889-2208) if you need access outside of those hours. Visitors must enter through the Long Hall front entrance, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Library’s 24/7 space is indeed available 24/7 by key card access. Please be mindful of occupancy limits posted outside each room.  

Work-Support

During Phase 2 of the Seminary’s reopening plan, work-support students are permitted to work on campus if the student and the supervisor agree that on-site work is best. A combination of on-campus and remote work is permitted. Work-support supervisors and students recently received an e-mail with further information. Direct any questions to Ryan Jensema, associate director of financial aid.

Manager Training

As part of an on-going effort to provide professional development for managers, we will offer a training session Thurs., Aug. 5 at 10:00 a.m. During this time, we’ll review the Seminary’s updated telework policy, tools for managing a remote workforce, and a number of case studies. This training will be held online and more details will follow. Please mark your calendars now. If you supervise another employee, you’ll be invited to this session.

As we settle into Phase 2, I’m thankful for your good work to keep our campus safe.

Dr. Lee

PTS Community,

Thank you for your good work over these last 16 months to keep our campus safe, our teaching and learning ongoing, and our staff support outstanding. As the acute emergency of COVID-19 is hopefully behind us, the Seminary is looking forward to our phased reopening of campus. Please carefully review the information below and the full plan on the Seminary’s website (right column) about Phase 2 (July 6) and Phase 3 (anticipated Aug. 23). Staff and faculty are invited to a Town Hall tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. online to review the plan. A recording of the Town Hall will be distributed afterwards for those who cannot attend. If anyone has questions, please be in touch.

Vaccines

• Pittsburgh Seminary will not mandate the COVID-19 vaccine for our students or employees.
• It is, however, expected that members of our community will be vaccinated before returning to campus. Please seriously consider getting the vaccine if you have been hesitant to this point.
• We will follow all CDC guidelines for individuals who have been vaccinated.
• All individuals on our campus who have not been vaccinated will be required to wear a mask in all public spaces, outdoors (when socializing) and indoors.
• We will be asking all members of our campus community to share their vaccination status through MyPTS.
• We will facilitate appropriate contact tracing measures that may be necessary through the LiveSafe app (see below) when/if we have a positive case on campus.
• Those who want to continue wearing masks to protect themselves from general illness concerns are encouraged to do so. We acknowledge that there are certain individuals who might remain at risk, even in the current environment. Knowing that, and in the spirit  of our caring community that is trying to keep everyone safe, we ask that we all be respectful of individual requests we might receive to wear a mask. Ultimately, though, none of us can require someone else to wear a mask.
• If you have concerns, please work with HR or the Associate Dean for Student Formation to discuss ways to limit exposure to others.
• We will continue to follow guidance from the CDC regarding masking.
• Getting vaccinated is a personal choice, and those choices might include medical, religions, or conscientious objection. We respect that personal choice and also must prioritize communal protections.
• PTS will not tolerate any sort of negative comments, shaming, or unkind behavior about people’s vaccination status. 

Phase 2

• Tues., July 6, 2021
• Each day on campus, employees, students, and visitors must complete the LiveSafe app questions about their health status and exposure to COVID-19. After receiving the green checkmark on the app, you may come and go from campus. If you receive a red X, please be in contact with your supervisor or the Associate Dean of Student Formation. If you are not on campus, you do not need to complete the daily check.
• Telecommuting is encouraged unless otherwise determined by their supervisors.
• Summer 2021 classes will continue fully remote.
• Meetings should continue through online tools.
• Events and gatherings are expected to occur online.
• Due to the availability of vaccinations, Seminary-funded travel is now permitted. If you’ll be traveling for Seminary purposes (professional development, fundraising events, recruiting events, etc.), please notify your supervisor.
• While on campus, masks are required for unvaccinated persons, including children older than 2, both outside (if socializing) and inside.
• Everyone is encouraged to abide by social distancing guidelines.
• A PTS ID badge must be visibly worn, and all exterior entrance doors will require key card access.
• Visitors to campus—including those persons visiting tenant organizations—must enter through the front entrance of Long Hall and proceed to the Reception Office to complete the health-screening questionnaire and obtain a visitor ID badge. Persons inviting   guests to campus are expected to greet the visitor at Reception and lead them to the meeting location.
• The Museum remains closed.
• Barbour Library will be open to the PTS community to varying degrees during this time.
• Food service will not be available, though the Kadel Dining Hall will be open.

Phase 3

• Planned to begin Aug. 23, 2021, which is the week of new student orientation.
• Before returning to the campus for the first time, you must watch a short video about updated health and safety protocols.
• Each day that a person is on campus, they must complete the LiveSafe app questions about their health status and exposure to COVID-19. After receiving the green checkmark on the app, faculty, staff, and students may come and go from campus. If a person receives a red X, they should contact their supervisor or the Associate Dean for Student Formation. If you are not on campus, you do not need to complete the daily check.
• Unvaccinated persons are required to wear a mask, outside (when socializing) and inside.
• External organizations must request use of campus spaces.
• All organizations, including PTS departments, must request space use and ordinarily not exceed 20 people. Permission will be granted on a case-by-case basis for meetings exceeding 20 people. PTS worship and classes are not subject to the same size limits.
• Employees are expected to work on campus Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. For employees who are able, remote work can continue on Mondays and Fridays with their supervisors’ permission.
• During the 2021-2022 academic year all courses will be offered either in HyFlex or fully remote.
• The Library will be open for general services. Library rooms will be scheduled by a reservation process.
• The Museum will resume welcoming visitors to tour and use the facility.
• The Seminary is working with Metz to explore possible food service options.
• Overnight housing will resume for all guests.
• Seminary-sponsored travel is permitted. If you’re traveling for work, please be in touch with Andy Greenhow. As travel plans were canceled at the beginning of the pandemic, the Seminary received travel-related refunds that may cover your future travel costs, even if the funds were previously charged to a different department.
• Visitors to campus—including those persons visiting tenant organizations—must enter through the front entrance of Long Hall and proceed to the Reception Office to complete the health-screening questionnaire and obtain a visitor ID badge. Persons inviting guests to campus are expected to greet the visitor at Reception and lead them to the meeting location.

LiveSafe App

• The  Seminary will use the LiveSafe app as a mitigation tool and as a way to conduct contract tracing should it become necessary.
• The Seminary expects students, staff, and faculty to download the LiveSafe app, create an account, and complete the heath check before coming to campus each day. Please answer the questions as it relates to your personal overall health in the context of COVID-19.
• If you are not on campus, you do not need to complete the daily check.
• For those users without a smartphone, a web link will be provided to complete the same set of questions. https://livesafe.jotform.com/211685051786158
• Once receiving the green checkmark on the app, you are welcome to come and go from campus for the day. If a person receives a red X, they should contact their supervisor or Associate Dean for Student Formation. People on campus may be asked to show their green checkmark.
• Visitors to campus are able to either download and use the app or follow a website link and complete the form online, including at the Reception Desk.

Again, thank you. I look forward to seeing you on campus soon.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

The Coronavirus Response Team met for an extended session to continue working on the Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan and our phased reopening. The goal of our phased reopening is to build layers of protection to ensure that our return to campus maximizes safety and viral mitigation while balancing ongoing needs of vulnerable populations in our community.

As previously announced, Phase 2 will begin July 6, and we will expand badge access for students, faculty, staff, and tenant organizations with offices at PTS, allowing people to more freely come and go from campus. We’ll also resume in-person visits for prospective students. Specific details about access, virus mitigation efforts, and gatherings will be shared next week when we’ll provide the full Health and Safety Plan. The CRT is also finalizing plans for an additional phase of opening that anticipates rules and guidelines for greater access and the potential for small public events. At this time, we anticipate the next phase (Phase 3) of the Seminary’s reopening likely to be Aug. 23 pending current trends in viral management locally. Phase 3 provides guidance for small in-person public events on campus and will encourage employees to more regularly work from their offices. Staff and faculty, be on the lookout for an invite to an upcoming Town Hall during which we’ll discuss the Health and Safety Plan and answer any questions. Additionally, we’ll schedule a meeting for department managers to learn about the Seminary’s updated telework policy.

We appreciate your patience as we finish the Health and Safety plan.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

As we’ve mentioned, the Coronavirus Response Team continues to work through the Seminary’s reopening plan. As of July 6, we will expand badge access for students, faculty, and staff allowing people to more freely come and go from campus. We’ll also resume in-person visits for prospective students. Specific details about access, virus mitigation efforts, and gatherings will be shared before July 6. Also before then we’ll share the full Health and Safety Plan, which anticipates the next phase of the Seminary’s reopening likely occurring in late August.

In reviewing the current plan, we have decided to make two immediate changes. Fully vaccinated persons present on campus (inside or outside) no longer need to wear a mask, per CDC and state guidance. Unvaccinated persons must continue to wear a mask at all times on campus. Also, employees no longer need to notify their supervisors if they’re traveling in- or out-of-state.

We appreciate your patience as we continue to work through the many decisions about the Seminary’s phased reopening.

Enjoy the beautiful weather,

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to work through the many details of the Seminary’s reopening plan, which will allow for greater campus access beginning in July and will outline our “next normal” as it relates to work life for staff and faculty. Our core hours of operation will continue to be Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.—whether working from campus or another location. Employees can enjoy Friday afternoons off throughout the summer. We anticipate reopening to the full PTS community before the fall semester and will follow the updated CDC guidelines for institutions of higher education to ensure the health and safety of our community.  

The Seminary’s reopening schedule, levels of access, and mitigation efforts will be the same for those organizations who lease office space on campus. More details are forthcoming.

Dr. Lee, President

PTS Community,

This week the Coronavirus Response Team met for an extended meeting to discuss the many aspects of campus reopening. Dr. Lee led the conversation around three main questions: What does reopening look like? What needs to be in place for the reopening? What related employee policies (new/updated) need to be written?

Thankfully, coronavirus case counts in Allegheny County and across the state continue to go down (seven day rolling average is just 47 cases in the county) and vaccination rates continue to go up (70 percent of the State is expected to be vaccinated by late June). These data points combined will allow the Seminary to reopen this summer through a phased approach. We’ve previously communicated that most employees will be able to continue to work from home through the summer, and that remains true. As we make decisions about campus access, reopening dates, masks on campus, vaccinations for employees and students, occupancy limits, and contact tracing tools, we’ll balance our mission to educate students with the communal needs, including health and safety. We expect to be able to provide the updated Health and Safety Plan by early July.

As this is likely my last Coronavirus Response Team e-mail update as president, I want to express genuine appreciation for the team members for their good work this last year. Although decisions were sometimes difficult, we strived to continue to keep the promises we’ve made to our students regarding classes and learning outcomes so that they would be able to graduate and move into the ministries to which they had been called on the schedule they had anticipated and that we would do everything possible to help mitigate the spread of the virus and protect the health of our community. We celebrated commencement last week and we have had only a few cases of COVID-19 on our campus. These realities were possible because of the full cooperation of our Seminary community. Thanks to each of you!

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

First, congratulations to this year’s graduates! We’re proud of you and all you’ve accomplished, especially in these pandemic days. And we look forward to all that God has called you to in your various ministries.

Campus Access

Now that case counts in Allegheny County have dropped below 150 for consecutive days, the CRT will be updating the Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan to begin allowing expanded access to campus this summer and envisioning work life and learning this fall. As decisions are made, we will keep you informed.

Additional Funds for Students

The Seminary has received a third installment of Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds. This will allow us to extend work-support opportunities over the summer, make available new funds for students via an application process, and make additional funds available this fall to those with need. Complete information has been e-mailed to returning students regarding these funds and the application process.

David Esterline, President

May 19, 2021

PTS Community,

Allegheny County Case Counts

Yesterday, 166 new cases of COVID-19 were reported to the Allegheny County Health Department and the seven-day average was 149. Unvaccinated people remain at Very High Risk.

CDC Guidance

As you likely saw, the CDC has changed its guidance for fully vaccinated people. In light of this and in light of the seven-day case count average in Allegheny County, the Coronavirus Response Team is considering ways to ease campus access restrictions, including exploring work support opportunities for students, with more information to be released in the days ahead. Regrettably, this guidance, which only applies to fully vaccinated people, does not change the possibility of an in-person graduation celebration.

Mailroom Access Reminder

If you need to retrieve mail or packages from the mailroom, the mailroom is accessible 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please contact Dan Holmes in the mailroom at 412-924-1392 in advance. Dan will provide access at the breezeway ground floor door. Remember that the remainder of Long Hall remains closed. For after-hours access to the mailroom, call Security (412-889-2208).

With thanks to each of you for your ongoing patience,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Allegheny County Case Counts

Yesterday (May 4), the case count in Allegheny County was 222. The seven-day average is now 256 which puts the County in the Moderate Transmission Risk category.

Graduation In-Person Celebration

The Coronavirus Response Team has decided that public health conditions are such that an in-person graduation celebration on campus is not possible. We’ve taken a cautious approach to protect our community and do not want to risk spread at this point. We regret that this longed for celebration cannot occur face to face.

Mailroom Access Reminder

If you need to retrieve mail or packages from the mailroom, the mailroom is accessible 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please contact Dan Holmes in the mailroom at 412-924-1392 in advance. Dan will provide access at the breezeway ground floor door. Remember that the remainder of Long Hall remains closed. For after-hours access to the mailroom, call Security (412-889-2208).

With thanks to each of you as we begin the final month of the academic year,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Graduation Celebration

The Coronavirus Response Team will make a final decision next week about whether to host the optional in-person celebration for this year’s graduates. The event is tentatively scheduled for Wed., May 26. CRT will review Allegheny County case counts and trends, as well as local and CDC guidelines when making the decision.

Work-related Travel

Staff and faculty, the Seminary’s current travel policy remains in place. No Seminary-sponsored travel can occur at this time without vice president approval. Please begin to review any domestic travel that may be required in the next six to 12 months (for professional development conferences, recruiting, research, etc.), and be sure to discuss these events with your vice president.

With continued thanks for your patience,

David Esterline, Presidentc

PTS Community,

Seminary Decisions about Reopening and Campus Access

Pandemic fatigue is high. We all long for the campus to reopen and for more interaction with others. From the beginning of the pandemic, the Coronavirus Response Team has operated from a position of care and caution while staying committed to ensuring the Seminary continues to educate students so they can complete their programs on time. While businesses and schools in the area are beginning to reopen, the Seminary believes it’s our Christian responsibility to help protect our community and neighbors from the spread of the virus. That means we are going to follow local and state guidance and continue learning and working from home. Each week CRT monitors the case count and positivity rate in Allegheny County. Following CDC guidelines for schools to offer in-person instruction, case counts must be 150 or fewer. Yesterday’s seven-day average was 385 cases. Although we’re not able to fully reopen at this time, CRT is considering ways to safely allow greater campus access. This information will be shared as decisions are made.

Reminder: 2021-2022 Academic Year HyFlex

With a continued commitment to delivering excellent education, and a desire to provide predictability for students and faculty, we have made plans for the 2021-2022 academic year that will allow pathways for both residential and remote students. While we are planning and hoping to return to in-person instruction in fall 2021, when possible, all master's- and doctoral-level classes during the full 2021-2022 academic year will be made available to students joining courses from a distance even if in-person instruction is also available. For residential and Pittsburgh-area students, this will sometimes mean that they will be present in a physical classroom with other students and the instructor, with distance students joining the classroom via technology. At other times, when faculty members determine that teaching and learning will be most effective when a class or class session is fully remote, all students will join the course via technology. For students traveling to Pittsburgh for doctor of ministry courses, this means that instruction will be in-person in Pittsburgh if possible, but remote access will also be available for students who do not feel that travel and/or that in-class instruction is safe for them. Decisions about class formats—at the master's and doctoral level—will be made on a course-by-course basis, with the achievement of student learning outcomes guiding decisions.

Beyond classes, by the fall of 2021, we are hopeful that public health conditions will allow in-person gatherings on campus—even if social distancing and masking requirements remain in place—for important and longed-for communal activities like worship, fellowship, student organizations, and other non-coursework-based student events. For students with access to the Pittsburgh campus during the 2021-2022 academic year, this will deepen opportunities for community formation. For students who plan to attend fully remotely during the 2021-2022 academic year, similar venues for worship and fellowship will be made available.

Decisions about delivery formats for the 2022-2023 academic year have not yet been made and will be announced in early 2022.

When to Quarantine

Wondering what to do if you’ve been exposed to someone who’s tested positive to COVID-19? The short answer is it depends. If you’re fully vaccinated (two weeks have passed since your last dose), you do not need to quarantine. If you’ve had COVID-19 in the last 90 days, have fully recovered, and do not exhibit new symptoms, you do not need to quarantine. If you have not been fully vaccinated and you’ve not had COVID-19 in the past 90 days, you must quarantine for 14 days after your last exposure. Stay home and monitor your health. Watch for fever (100.4â—¦F), cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19. And if possible, stay away from others in your household, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19. Wondering if you can shorten your quarantine? Your local public health authorities make the final decisions about how long quarantine should last, based on local conditions and needs. The Seminary’s current policy states that people in the latter category who have been exposed to COVID-19 cannot return to campus for 14 days. See the CDC’s full guidelines about quarantining: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html.

With gratitude for each of you—your patience, flexibility, and faithful commitments through this season,

David Esterline, President

April 14, 2021

PTS Community,

Great news! All adults in Pennsylvania are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine! As a reminder, Pfizer (16 and older) and Moderna (18 and older) are available in the U.S. and require two doses.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is currently paused in an abundance of caution as the FDA and the CDC study the six cases of women who developed blood clots after receiving the vaccine. In a recent Washington Post article, former U.S. surgeon general Jerome Adams explained, “This is a moment to keep in mind that every medical treatment has risks as well as benefits. One can experience negative side effects from treatments as common as Tylenol (overdoses from which kill one to two people every day) or ibuprofen. With more than 6 million Americans having received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine so far, the risk of blood clots — if proved — appears to be less than 1 in 1 million. For perspective, the risk of blood clots from smoking is about 1 in 600; from birth control, it’s 1 in 1,000; and from covid-19, it’s 1 in 7 — all far greater. With further investigation, it might become clear that the women who developed the rare blood clots had a particular risk factor in common or that some other as-yet-unknown risk factor is present. Here’s another thing to consider: More than 560,000 Americans have died of covid-19. That puts the risk of fatality from the virus around 1 in 600. You’re not worried about covid because you don’t consider yourself high-risk? The risk of dying from covid if you are younger than 40 is about 1 in 40,000 — still far greater than the potential 1-in-1 million chance of a blood clot.” (You can read more https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/04/13/pausing-johnson-johnson-vaccine-was-right-choice/and https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/04/13/what-to-know-jj-vaccine-blood-clots-cvst/.)

Though we’ve all experienced some version of pandemic fatigue, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to slow the spread of the disease. This time last year, the seven-day average number of cases in Allegheny County was 33 per day. When we reopened campus in late August, the seven-day average was 56 per day. At the County’s highest number of weekly cases, which occurred in December, there were on average 995 daily cases. And this past week, we saw an average of 420 daily cases. While we all long to be together, health officials advise against gathering in person.

Please consider getting your vaccine to help the U.S. reach herd immunity. Here are a few local mass vaccination clinics with available appointments:

Currently PTS is strongly encouraging all staff, faculty, and students to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine to prevent the spread of the virus and diminish the effects of contamination by reducing complications, reducing hospitalization, and finally reducing deaths from this virus. The vaccine is the most effective tool to end the pandemic by developing herd immunity and protecting against the emergence of variants. Remember, even those who’ve received the vaccine must continue to wear their masks. Scientists are still studying whether vaccinated persons can still transmit COVID-19. 

As we move toward a future of returning to campus, it is important for the safety of all to have as many persons vaccinated as possible. To aid you in making an informed decision, we have gathered some recent information provided by Anita L. Barkin, D.Ph. M.S.N., NP-C, FACHA co-chair, and American College Health Association COVID-19 Task Force.

Vaccination Side Effects/Allergic Reactions

Effectiveness Against Variants

• Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson (paused) are all performing well in decreasing serious disease.
  • Moderna and Pfizer remain highly effective against B.1.1.7 variant (U.K.) and New York variant.
  • Less effective against the P1 (Japan/Brazil) variant but appear to provide an effective cushion against severe illness.
  • Less effective against the South African variant – major focus of efforts for booster.
• Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson are all working on options to increase effectiveness against variants.

Vaccine Myth Busting

• The mRNA technology used to develop Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been in play for more than a decade.
• The messenger never enters the nucleus of the cell, so it cannot alter our DNA.
• There are no aborted fetal cells in the vaccine. https://www.nebraskamed.com
  • Pfizer and Moderna did perform confirmation tests (to ensure the vaccines work) using fetal cell lines. Johnson & Johnson uses fetal cell lines in vaccine development, confirmation, and production.
  • Fetal cell lines are grown in a lab and are thousands of generations away from fetal cells and are not fetal tissue.
  • The Vatican has issued clear guidance that permits Roman Catholics in good faith to receive COVID-19 vaccines that use fetal cell lines in development or production.

What if I do not want to be vaccinated?

Currently there is not a federal or state mandate on vaccinations, however, that could change at any time. Employers, such as PTS, working with the public—such as students—have a responsibility to protect and provide a safe work environment. Therefore, we are strongly encouraging you to take action.

If the regulations change that only vaccinated persons can be in public without wearing a mask, then unvaccinated persons will continue to be required to wear masks and/or other protective equipment/processes while on PTS property. 

What if I cannot be vaccinated?

Currently there are three specific areas that allow persons not to be vaccinated if mandated. Personal and political views are not a covered exception. 

If vaccines become mandatory, a specific form will be available to staff, faculty, and students who cannot be vaccinated because they are covered by one of these three documented exception areas. Specific accommodations will be discussed on an individual needs basis. 

Vaccine Education Resources For You

• American Lung Association: COVID-19 Action Initiative (https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease- lookup/covid-19/action-initiative)
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): COVID-19 Vaccination Toolkits (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- ncov/vaccines/toolkits.html)
• Harvard Law Review: Can Colleges and Universities Require Student COVID-19 Vaccination? (https://blog.harvardlawreview.org/can-colleges-and-universities-require-student-covid- 19-vaccination/)
• National Governors Association (NGA): State-based Resource Materials (https://www.nga.org/vaccine-communication- resources/)
• PA Department of Health: (https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Vaccine/Pages/Vaccine.aspx)
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): (https://www.osha.gov/coronavirus)
• Allegheny County Health Department: (https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Health-Department/Resources/COVID-19/COVID-19.aspx)

As this pandemic has been ever-changing, we encourage you to stay both informed and diligent on protecting yourself and others by wearing your mask, handwashing often, and maintaining social distancing.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Vaccine Clinic

Great news! The Seminary in partnership with the Lebanon Shops Pharmacy (300 Mt Lebanon Blvd #23, Pittsburgh, PA 15234) will offer another vaccine clinic this weekend (either Saturday and/or Sunday, depending on response) to administer Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen single shot vaccine. This time around, everyone is eligible! Please see the e-mail sent April 6 from Andy Greenhow with more details. Complete this webform (https://www.pts.edu/vaccine-eligibility-form) if you wish to participate. Appointment times will be scheduled once you sign up.

Remote Work this Summer

The Seminary is encouraging all employees to continue working remotely this summer as much as needed for your personal situation. Do what’s best for your family and your health. We expect to expand access to offices and campus when COVID-19 conditions allow. Please inform your manager of your anticipated summer plans.

Updated Cleaning Practices

The CDC has updated its guidelines for COVID-19 cleaning and sanitizing protocols. The Seminary is reviewing these guidelines to ensure that we’re doing all we can do to keep our campus clean and our community safe.

Wear Your Mask—Properly

Don’t forget that masks are only effective when worn properly. That means over your nose and pinched as well as tightly fitting around your mouth and chin.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet each week. Members of the team also meet with representatives from local and state health departments. In all of these meetings, the main message remains the same—continue to use good caution. When in public wear your mask, stay at least six feet from others, wash your hands, and get vaccinated when it’s your turn.

The members of our community in Phase 1A who previously received their vaccines from the Lebanon Shops Pharmacy have now gotten their second dose. While we’re inquiring about another vaccine clinic, it seems unlikely the pharmacy will be able to accommodate us due to the way the government is now distributing the vaccines. We’re hearing that more doses are becoming more widely available, and Pennsylvania will soon move beyond Phase 1A. See below for the new timeline released earlier today. Wondering if you’re in Phase 1B or 1C? Visit the PA Department of Health website for more information: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Vaccine/Pages/Vaccine.aspx.

Though these days remain trying for so many people for so many reasons, this Sunday we celebrate the resurrection and new life! Thanks be to God—Creator, Redeemer, and Giver of Abundant Hope.

David Esterline, President

Campus Reopening

While we were hoping to increase campus access mid-April, the rising case count in Allegheny County prevents us from doing so. We will watch the weekly case numbers and expand access when it’s safe to do so. CRT will consider this decision week by week. We recognize this is not the news many in our community were hoping to hear as we long for opportunities to fellowship together. Please continue to do your part to help slow the spread of the virus. Wear your mask, keep your distance, wash your hands, avoid gatherings (including those with family members who are not fully vaccinated), and get the vaccine when you’re eligible.

The PA Department of Health has made some improvement on their vaccine website. The site shows the number of doses allocated to a given location. If the doses are provided by the State, the site lists the most recent allocation and the date. See example below. Also, the website shows the pharmacies directly receiving federal allocation.

While we celebrate the increasing numbers of those in our community who have been vaccinated, we are not in a position to loosen protocols or expand campus access—individual or otherwise—at this point. Scientists don’t understand fully to what extent the vaccination prevents the spread of the virus from those who have been vaccinated to those who have not been vaccinated. We must continue to stay vigilant to protect all members of our community.

Library Access

While the campus remains closed, please remember that faculty, staff, and students can access materials through pick-up only, and short-term access is available to printers and computers. We ask that no one be in the building for extended periods of time researching, writing, or studying. If you have reference questions or need additional support, please contact the Library staff.  

Graduation

As you’ve read, this year’s commencement service will be held online. Accordingly, the graduation fees have been waived for the Class of 2021. Since the regalia has already been ordered and received, it will be mailed to graduates closer to the scheduled commencement activities. Again, there is no charge for this.   

We are hopeful that public health conditions will allow us to gather in person (masked and socially distanced) to celebrate together in late May. The details of this celebration are forthcoming and will be based on State and CDC guidance.

Avoid COVID-19 Vaccine Scams

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

What a beautiful day in Pittsburgh! It’s becoming a regular thing around here—and we thank God for this small blessing.

Another Case on Campus

A member of our community has tested positive for COVID-19. The person was last on campus March 12 and was feeling fine at that time. When we became aware of the positive test, our maintenance crew disinfected the areas where the person had been. We do not believe there was any exposure to the campus community. The person is isolating off campus.

COVID Protocols

If you’re feeling unwell, please stay home. Do not come to campus. Also, in the event of a positive COVID-19 test, students should inform Dean Teter; faculty should alert Dean Vacek; staff should tell Kathleen Green; and vice presidents should inform President Esterline. As always, continue to wear your mask while in public, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands frequently.

Internet/Computer Help Available

As a reminder, if you’re experiencing Internet or computer issues—including on- and off-campus—please reach out to IT. We have mifis and loaner laptops available. Our IT team is also happy to help troubleshoot issues related to your working, teaching, and learning remotely.

Health and Safety Plan

As previously noted, the Coronavirus Response Team continues to edit the Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan, particularly areas related to travel, gathering size limits, and other updated State and County guidelines. The document will be redistributed before the Seminary expands campus access, tentatively set for April.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

For the moment, spring is here. There is much for which to be thankful – even in these trying times.

Campus Reopening

As health conditions permit, the Coronavirus Response Team continues to plan tentatively for an April reopening of campus. At that time we’ll return to campus in the same way we did in late August 2020—more campus access, expanded library availability, small socially distanced and masked gatherings for study and worship, etc. Over the next several weeks CRT will review our Health and Safety Plan and as needed update restrictions related to classroom space, group gathering size, tenant access to campus, and the like.

Winners Wear Masks Signs Still Available

Thanks to a grant we have yard signs that read “Winners Wear Masks” and show photos of Steelers players and staff. The signs are available for pickup in the breezeway. Place a sign in your yard or window to remind your neighbors to mask up. The granting organization has asked that If you take a sign that you kindly send a photo of the sign in place. E-mail your pic to Click to view e-mail.

David Esterline, President

March 3, 3021

PTS Community,

The sun is shining again today in Pittsburgh!

Additional great news: This past weekend 42 members of our community—students, staff, and faculty—received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at Lebanon Shops Pharmacy. We appreciate Diane Riley and the Lebanon Shops Pharmacy team. What a wonderful blessing to be able to provide access to the vaccine for those folks in Phase 1A. When it’s time to schedule the second dose, we’ll directly notify those people. At this time, we do not know if or when we’ll be able to facilitate another vaccine clinic for our community.

In these difficult days, we all want to find ways to help others. Consider assisting your neighbors in the vaccination sign-up process.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

The sun was shining in Pittsburgh today. What a wonderful reminder that Spring is coming! This long winter has been difficult for us all. I appreciate your resilience – please know you are in my prayers every day.

Campus Reopening

As health conditions permit, the Coronavirus Response Team is tentatively planning for an April reopening of campus. At that time we’ll return to campus in the same way we did in late August 2020—more campus access, expanded library availability, small socially distanced and masked gatherings for study and worship, etc. Over the next month CRT will review our Health and Safety Plan and as needed update restrictions related to classroom space, group gathering size, tenant access to campus, and the like.

Winners Wear Masks Signs Available

Thanks to a grant we have yard signs that read “Winners Wear Masks” and show photos of Steelers players and staff. The signs are available for pickup in the breezeway. Place a sign in your yard or window to remind your neighbors to mask up. The granting organization has asked that If you take a sign that you kindly send a photo of the sign in place. E-mail your pic to mlogan@pts.edu.

Vaccine Information

Pennsylvania residents, there’s a lot of information being released about the different COVID-19 vaccines in development—and you probably have questions. Check out the PA Health Department’s COVID-19 vaccine frequently asked questions webpage: https://bit.ly/PACOVID19Vaccine.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Vaccine Update

Members of the Coronavirus Response Team continue to meet each week with folks from the Allegheny County Health Department and other leaders. Current conversation continues to be about the limited availability of vaccines. If you’re eligible in Phase 1A for the vaccine and are able to secure an appointment, take it! At this time, we have no further information about if or when the vaccine may be available on campus. Thank you to those in Phase 1A who completed our questionnaire about your interest in getting the vaccine. That information is valuable as we inquire about the available supply.

Course Delivery

At this point, we anticipate that the course delivery mode for the remainder of the Spring Semester will look similar to now. In the months ahead we’ll make specific decisions about the Fall Semester and in the fall we’ll decide about Spring 2022. Watch for an upcoming e-mail from Dean Vacek about more detailed plans for the 2021-2022 academic year. Read more.

Campus Reopening

We continue to monitor cases in Allegheny County. Thankfully, we’re starting to see a downward trend in new cases each day though they remain high. When conditions permit, we’ll make a return to campus in the same way we did in late August 2020—more campus access, visitor check-in at reception, expanded library availability, small socially distanced and masked gatherings for study and worship, etc. CRT is reviewing our Health and Safety Plan and CDC guidance in anticipation of announcing a Phase 2 reopening date this spring.

Winners Wear Masks Signs Available

Thanks to a grant we have 25 yard signs that read “Winners Wear Masks” and show photos of Steelers players and staff. The signs are available for pickup in the breezeway. Place a sign in your yard or window to remind your neighbors to mask up. The granting organization has asked that If you take a sign that you kindly send a photo of the sign in place. E-mail your pic to Click to view e-mail.

Additional Assistance Available

If you need non-medical assistance during these difficult days, call 2-1-1 for support.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Campus Reopening

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to pay attention to case numbers and the positivity rate in Allegheny County. Currently, we do not have an expected campus reopening date. We will remain closed through at least March 1.

Fall Semester

At this time, we have not made decisions about the delivery mode of fall classes.

Vaccine Info

The East Liberty Family Health Care Center is offering an info and Q&A Zoom session about the COVID-19 vaccine Wed., Feb. 24 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Registration is required. See the flier for more information. A member of our community attended a preview session and found it to contain helpful information.

Contact Tracing

As a reminder, we can all help stop the spread of COVID-19. If you’ve recently tested positive for the virus of are known to have been exposed, answer the call from contract tracers and remember that answers are private and that contract tracers will never ask for financial info or your social security number.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Funds Available for Students

The Seminary has received a second grant from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. These dollars, totaling nearly $65,000, will be made available to enrolled master’s, DMin, and CP&R students through an application process similar to the previous distribution of $40,736. The form will be available on MyPTS in the days ahead. Watch for an e-mail from Financial Aid Associate Director Ryan Jensema for details about the application process. Students facing financial hardship due to COVID-19 can use these funds for expenses related to the cost of attendance.

Availability of Vaccines

There are many questions about when the vaccine will be available to members of our community. At this time, Allegheny County is vaccinating healthcare workers and people 65 or older. Under current eligibility guidelines in the State, there are more than 400,000 eligible people in Phase 1a in Allegheny County. There’s also a limited supply of the vaccine, which is distributed by the federal government to the state government, and then to counties. The Seminary is exploring possibilities for vaccinations, but we don’t have any assurance about when they will become available. Thank you for your patience while we work with various local and state officials to determine a timeline for vaccination.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

As you know, the Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet each week. Additionally, I meet weekly with presidents of local colleges and universities in addition to Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Director of the Allegheny County Health Department Dr. Debra Bogen. Other members of the CRT meet weekly with the Southwest Pennsylvania Contact Tracing Consortium, which includes representatives from a number of local health agencies. These groups continue to do their best to share accurate and timely information about the County’s and State’s various guidelines and now the vaccine rollout. As we have additional information about when the vaccine will become available to members of our community, we will let you know. Meantime, if you wish to your check your eligibility for vaccination during Phase 1A, you can visit the State’s website: https://www.pa.gov/guides/get-vaccinated/#Step1ChecktoSeeifYoureEligible. State leaders continue to update who is eligible during the current phase. More information can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Vaccine/Pages/Vaccine.aspx. Scroll to “Vaccine Rollout Plan”.

The Seminary’s campus will remain closed through at least March 1. If you need to visit campus, please schedule your time with Tom Fulton before arriving.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

It’s been 10 months since the Seminary first closed campus as a way to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. These have been long, hard months for so many reasons. At this point, nearly all of us have been affected by the virus. People we love are suffering and in some cases dying. As a community, we must continue lifting up in prayer our colleagues, students, friends, family, community, and those on the front lines in so many ways. In these days and always, God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Campus Remains Closed

The Seminary campus will remain closed through at least March 1. At that time, the Coronavirus Response Team will reevaluate our campus reopening in light of the number of local cases and rate of positivity. Please remember to limit your visits to campus. Contact Tom Fulton if you need to schedule time on campus.

Spring Semester

Given the current situation, the Seminary’s Spring Semester will start Feb. 1 fully online with no-in person instruction and will remain that way at least throughout the month of February. As noted above, we will resume in-person learning when it’s safe to do so.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Happy New Year!

Campus Remains Closed

The Seminary campus remains closed through at least Jan. 21, 2021. Given the number of cases and the rate of positivity in Allegheny County, we expect the closure to be extended. If employees need access to campus during this time, please remember to contact Tom Fulton in advance of your visit. We appreciate your continued efforts to minimize your time on campus.

Summer and Fall Semesters

At this time, we anticipate offering summer languages through remote instruction. As for the fall semester, a calendar of courses will be available in April. Classes will be developed with maximum flexibility in mind to ensure we can increase in-person instruction as soon as it’s safe to do so.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Seminary Campus Remains Closed

The Seminary campus will remain closed through at least Jan. 21, 2021.

Field Education Update

In an effort to keep our students and the wider community safe, the Seminary has a new policy for students enrolled in field education. In general, this will mean remote field education experiences for the time being. As part of the PTS curriculum, field education will abide by State public health guidance and mandates. For example, the December 2020 mandate in Pennsylvania indicates that indoor gatherings and events of more than 10 persons are prohibited at least until Jan. 4. While religious organizations are excluded from this mandate, we do not consider the Seminary exempt from it. Field ed supervisors may petition the Coronavirus Response Team for an exception.

Quarantine Supplies Available if Needed

In the event that a student needs to quarantine on campus during the holiday break, please know that care packages can be arranged for delivery by contacting Tom Fulton.

We anticipate this will be our last coronavirus update before the new year.

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

As scientists and the medical community learn more about the coronavirus, we better understand how it is spread, how to treat it, and how to test for the virus. The Seminary is in regular contact with the Allegheny County Health Department and other colleges and universities in Pittsburgh. Yesterday we were informed that if you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, it is now suggested that you self-quarantine at home for 5 days and then get tested. The average incubation period is 5 to 7 days after exposure but can be as long as 14 days.

Please remember to wash your hands, wear a mask, practice social distancing, avoid gatherings, and only leave home for necessities. We all must do our part to slow the spread of the virus.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

As you know, case counts in the area continue to surge. Please be extra careful! Wear your mask, stay at least six feet from others, wash your hands, and only leave your home for necessities. Limit gathering size (up to 10 on campus), and be vigilant whenever you interact with others—including at the grocery store and gas station. We all have a role to play in keeping our community and loved ones safe.

Quarantining on Campus

In the event that a member of the PTS community tests positive for COVID-19 and needs to quarantine apart from family or roommates, the Seminary has a furnished unit available. Please contact Tom Fulton (Click to view e-mail / 412-924-1434) for more details.

Quarantine Period—Seminary Policy

Although the CDC has updated its quarantine guidance, PTS still requires people to quarantine/refrain from visiting campus for 14 days after receiving a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. Likewise, Pennsylvania requires anyone traveling outside the state to quarantine for 14 days upon return. For further information about isolation and quarantine, please see the document "Allegheny County Health Department Coronavirus Updates," to the right, provided by the AHD. The PDF outlines what to do if you’ve tested positive for COVID-19, been in contact with someone with COVID-19, or need assistance—food, housing, childcare, etc.—following a COVID diagnosis. 

May the hope, love, joy, and peace of Advent be with you,

David Esterline, President

Members of the community,

Consistent with our ongoing efforts to provide up-to-date information and resources, I’m writing today to make you aware that we just learned of an additional person on campus testing positive for COVID-19. The Fulton resident received the positive result Nov. 20. The person has not attended any in-person courses in recent weeks and has only be outside their unit for essential activities. As has been our regular routine, our maintenance crew will disinfect the common areas of the Fulton Apartments.

One of the clearest guidelines from public health authorities, in the U.S. and around the world, is how a community responds to an outbreak can have direct impact on its duration and severity. By working together—and heeding the wealth of public health expertise that is available to us—we can take material steps to slow the spread of the virus. If you are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus, please self quarantine in your home or unit and avoid contact with others who live with you.

MINIMIZING DISEASE SPREAD

Preventing the spread of disease is everyone’s job. You can help by doing the following:

• Wash your hands frequently – especially after touching doorknobs – and follow proper hand-washing procedures:
  • Use warm water and soap, wash hands for 20 seconds.
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60-95 percent alcohol.
• If you feel ill, stay in your home. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have tested positive for COVID-19, students should inform the Associate Dean for Students and Formation; faculty should inform the Dean of Faculty; staff should inform the HR Manager; and vice presidents should inform the President.
  • Separate yourself from other residents and pets.
  • If you need to leave your home to go to a doctor, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth. Discard your mask upon return and/or wash immediately.
  • Any co-residents should use a facemask and gloves when in the same room as you.
  • Do not use public transportation, ride sharing, or taxis.
  • If living on campus, do not enter any public areas in the building.
  • Before leaving to go to the doctor, call ahead to let them know if you may have been exposed to a virus.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard immediately in a lined trashcan and wash your hands immediately afterwards following the steps noted above.
• Do not share personal items (dishes, utensil, cups, bedding, towels, etc.).
• Clean all high-touch surfaces every day.

KEEPING THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN

• We are monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and Pennsylvania and Allegheny County health departments for updates.
• We will continue to be proactive and transparent in our communication to avoid panic, misinformation, and ensure your expectations are managed.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

As you may have seen, earlier this week the State of Pennsylvania announced new mitigation efforts. These efforts fall under the categories of requiring strict safety measures in schools; keeping businesses, customers, and employees safe; strengthening gathering limitations; empowering local government; and ramping up enforcement. (You can read more online: https://www.governor.pa.gov/newsroom/as-covid-19-cases-reach-critical-levels-wolf-admin-announces-new-mitigation-efforts/.) At this time, telework is mandatory unless impossible. Therefore, the Seminary will remain in Phase 1 of our Health and Safety Plan until at least Jan. 4, 2021. Employees will work from home, meetings will occur online, and students will learn remotely.

Campus Access Reminder

The Seminary campus is closed. Key card access will be granted only to employees with “essential access.” If you need to access campus, please contact Tom Fulton (Click to view e-mail / 412-924-1434) to arrange a time and contact security once you arrive (412-889-2208). Tom will consider the timing of all requests to manage the density of people on campus. Please keep in mind that campus visits must be for critical activities related to the mission of the Seminary and your own work.

Have a safe Thanksgiving,

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

Masks on Campus

On Nov. 18, Pennsylvania mandated stricter mask requirements. Masks must be worn whenever a person is away from home. That includes outdoors if a person cannot be socially distant — 6 feet away — from other people. So, please wear your mask when you’re anywhere on campus that’s not inside your room/apartment unit/office. Masks should be worn in the computer lab, hallways, laundry facilities, common areas, etc. regardless of your ability to be socially distant.

PA Strengthens Travel Quarantine Policies

Effective Nov. 20, the State will strengthen its travel quarantine policies. Anyone from Pennsylvania who leaves the state and plans to return must get a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before returning, or quarantine for 14 days upon their return. You can read more on the State Department of Health’s website: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx.

Visitors on Campus

From time to time, local neighbors use the PTS campus for a variety of reasons. As a seminary that seeks to be hospitable, we’ll continue to welcome neighbors onto campus. In this time of a pandemic, security will routinely monitor campus to ensure that everyone is maintaining proper social distancing, wearing masks, and following all safety protocols. If people violate these policies, security will address the matter.

Campus Access Reminder

At this time, the Seminary campus is closed. Key card access will be granted only to employees with “essential access.” If you need to access campus, please space out your visit to ensure that we can adequately manage the density of people. When planning to come to campus, please contact Tom Fulton (Click to view e-mail / 412-924-1434) to arrange a time and contact security once you arrive (412-889-2208).

Mailroom Access

If students living on campus need to retrieve mail or packages from the mailroom, note that at this time the mailroom is accessible 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please contact Dan Holmes in the mailroom at 412-924-1392 in advance. Dan will provide access at the breezeway ground floor door. Remember that the remainder of Long Hall remains closed. For after-hours access to the mailroom, call Security (412-889-2208).

Work-Support During Phase I

All work-support students and supervisors have already been notified that PTS will continue to pay students their allocated work-support hours while the Seminary is in Phase I. Supervisors are working to ensure that students have tasks they can complete remotely.

With appreciation and prayer,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Effective immediately, Pittsburgh Seminary is returning to Phase 1 of our Health and Safety Plan. (The plan can be found at the top of this webpage.) This change will remain in effect through at least Nov. 30.

As you’re likely aware, the case count in Allegheny County continues to climb. The Pennsylvania Department of Education guidance recommends that schools consider remote learning if Allegheny County has at least a two-week period at “substantial” transmission level, meaning an incident rate of 100 cases per 100,000 residents, or a positivity rate of greater than 10 percent in Allegheny County. Unfortunately, Allegheny County has moved to the “substantial” level.

Today we were informed about a COVID-positive case on campus. The person lives in the Fulton Apartments. Our facilities crew has already disinfected the tower and all common areas of the building. The person was last in Long Hall Nov. 5.

Note: All classes will be held remotely through the remainder of the fall semester.

Also, through until at least Nov. 30:

• Telework is required.
• Meetings will be held via online tools.
• No social gatherings are permitted.
• Campus is only open to faculty, staff, and active students. Visitors will not be permitted onto campus.
• When on campus, employees with “essential access” may come and go as needed and are encouraged to work in their offices (as opposed to public lounges, the library, Kadel Dining Room, classrooms, etc.) and refrain from gathering in groups.
• All persons on campus must wear a mask while present in community spaces and socially distance from others.
• Anyone who is feeling unwell should not come onto campus.
• Barbour Library will return to more limited access. Watch for an e-mail from Library Director Michelle Spomer with additional information.
• Once the Seminary returns to Phase 2 (at some point after Nov. 30), all students, faculty, and staff must complete an online health screening form and watch a short video detailing updated health and safety protocols before returning to campus for the first time. The form can be found online: https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire.

We recognize that employees may need to retrieve computers, books, and other supplies from campus to telework during these next weeks. Please space out your visit to campus to ensure that we can adequately manage the density of people. Key card access will only be granted to employees with “essential access.” When planning to come to campus to retrieve materials, please contact Tom Hinds (Click to view e-mail / 412-330-9284) to arrange a time and contact security once you arrive (412-889-2208).

As a reminder, these are the best ways to minimize the spread of the virus:

• If you or someone in your household is feeling unwell, please stay home.
• Wear a mask.
• Practice social distancing.
• Limit social gatherings of any size, especially during this holiday season.
• Wash your hands.

Please note that while our campus has experienced a few cases of COVID-19 this week (two off-campus and one on-campus), this decision to return to Phase 1 is based on our commitment to be good neighbors. We all must do everything we can at this time to help stop the spread of the virus. The Seminary is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our full community.

With prayers for you and your families,

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

Consistent with our ongoing efforts to provide up-to-date information and resources, we are writing to notify you that two members of the Pittsburgh Seminary community have tested positive for COVID-19. They were last on campus Oct. 30 and Nov. 2, respectively. We’ve already informed others who could have been exposed to the virus and asked them to self-quarantine, follow CDC and PA guidelines, get tested as needed, and alert us to any change in their health condition. We’ve also disinfected areas of campus where the persons were known to have been. Although dealing with symptoms, both persons are resting at their homes.

We realize that knowledge of these positive cases will surely increase anxiety among the Seminary community. This is understandable. These cases underscore the need for the Seminary to continue its swift and comprehensive response to the COVID-19 outbreak:

• We have been in contact with health officials and continue to seek the best guidance from public health experts;
• We have notified all persons who could have been exposed to these persons;
• We are sanitizing our facilities and public spaces on a continuous basis.

One of the clearest guidelines from public health authorities, in the U.S. and around the world, is how a community responds to an outbreak can have direct impact on its duration and severity. By working together—and heeding the wealth of public health expertise that is available to us—we can take material steps to slow the spread of the virus.

As always, please consult this dedicated COVID-19 website for the latest information.

In addition to our existing cleaning, disinfecting, and maintenance policies, we are also taking the following measures:

CLEANING AND EDUCATION

• We will increase frequency and deep cleaning of hard surfaces in common areas–laundry facilities, doorknobs, and the like.
• We have installed hand sanitizer dispensers in the buildings entrances and other common areas, including frequent maintenance to ensure the dispensers remain operational.
• We’ll post additional signage to educate you on how to prevent the spread of infection.

MINIMIZING DISEASE SPREAD

Preventing the spread of disease is everyone’s job. You can help by doing the following:

• Wash your hands frequently – especially after touching doorknobs – and follow proper hand-washing procedures:
  • Use warm water and soap, wash hands for 20 seconds.
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60-95 percent alcohol.
• If you feel ill, stay in your home. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have tested positive for COVID-19, students should inform the Associate Dean for Students and Formation; faculty should inform the Dean of Faculty; staff should inform the HR Manager. Vice Presidents should inform the President.
  • Separate yourself from other residents and pets.
  • If you need to leave your home to go to a doctor, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth. Discard your mask upon return and/or wash immediately.
  • Any co-residents should use a facemask and gloves when in the same room as you.
  • Do not use public transportation, ride sharing, or taxis.
  • If living on campus, do not enter any public areas in the building.
  • Before leaving to go to the doctor, call ahead to let them know if you may have been exposed to a virus.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard immediately in a lined trashcan and wash your hands immediately afterwards following the steps noted above.
• Do not share personal items (dishes, utensil, cups, bedding, towels, etc.).
• Clean all high-touch surfaces every day.

KEEPING THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN

• We are monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and Pennsylvania and Allegheny County health departments for updates.
• We will continue to be proactive and transparent in our communication to avoid panic, misinformation, and ensure your expectations are managed.

Join me in praying for healing for these persons and for our entire community.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Our ability to keep our campus safe and open depends on each of us doing our part to minimize the spread of the virus. Please remember that whenever you’re in public to wear your mask, keep at least six feet from others, practice good hand hygiene, and refrain from any unnecessary gatherings. Although coronavirus fatigue has set in for many people, remember that preventing an outbreak at the Seminary allows us to keep our freedoms on campus.

Holiday Travel and Hosting

• If you’re planning to travel for the holidays, please remember that you may be required to quarantine for 14 days upon your return home and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus /Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time, so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
• Students who live on campus and must quarantine will be asked to do so in their individual units. Please refrain from spending time in common areas.
• You also may be hosting family and friends for the holidays. If you were in close contact (as defined below) with someone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or has recently tested positive, you should not be on campus (or in common areas if you’re a resident).
• Students who may be hosting family and friends in their residence hall room or apartment are ask to keep their guests in their individual units. Gatherings of any size of guests are discouraged in common areas.

CDC Updates “Close Contact” Guidelines

• Recently the CDC updated its guidelines about what it means to be in close contact with someone displaying symptoms of the coronavirus. Now, “close contact” means: “Someone who was within six feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period* starting from two days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, two days prior to test specimen collection) until the time the patient is isolated.”
  • *Individual exposures added together over a 24-hour period (e.g., three five-minute exposures for a total of 15 minutes). Factors to consider when defining close contact include proximity (closer distance likely increases exposure risk), the duration of exposure (longer exposure time likely increases exposure risk), whether the infected individual has symptoms (the period around onset of symptoms is associated with the highest levels of viral shedding), if the infected person was likely to generate respiratory aerosols (e.g., was coughing, singing, shouting), and other environmental factors (crowding, adequacy of ventilation, whether exposure was indoors or outdoors).
• The Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan has been updated with this new definition. As always, you’ll find our Health and Safety plan on at the top of this webpage.

Change in Health Conditions

• Remember that if you have a change in your health and are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, refrain from coming onto campus and please complete this form letting us know of your change: https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire.
• In the event that a student experiences symptoms or is diagnosed with COVID-19, please alert Associate Dean Ayana Teter.
• In the event that a staff member experiences symptoms or is diagnosed with COVID-19, please alert HR Manager Kathleen Green. Faculty should contact Dean Heather Vacek.

Library Hours

• The Seminary will be expanding access for faculty, staff, and students to the Library 24/7 space for using computers and printers, picking up items, and having additional study spaces. Watch for a future e-mail detailing these changes.
• Our maintenance crew will continue to clean these areas each morning.

Security on Campus

• If you’re on campus, you’ll notice an extra security guard patrolling the grounds in the evenings today through Sunday. Like many organizations in the city, we’ve increased security following the election.
• If you’re on campus at any time and feel threatened in any way, call 911. Security guards are an extra set of eyes and ears but will not engage in altercations if they arise. Guards will likewise call the police.

Preaching Association

• The Seminary offers the Preaching Association as one way to connect congregations looking for preachers with students willing to preach. These are temporary opportunities. Typically students would travel within a set distance from the Seminary for these opportunities. During this time, however, the Seminary will only accept invitations for students to preach virtually as another way to help keep our campus community safe.

Thank you for your continued good work to ensure our campus community remains safe.

David Esterline, President

Oct. 28, 2020

PTS Community,

The Seminary has begun to settle into life in a pandemic. The Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet most weeks to discuss PTS operations and health and safety measures. The work is less intense than at the beginning of the pandemic so there are fewer updates at this time. We will continue to keep you informed if and when conditions change and we have news to share. As you’ve likely seen in the news, case counts around the country are on the rise. If conditions warrant, the Seminary may need to revert to Phase 1 of the Seminary’s reopening plan, as outlined in the Health and Safety Plan (available at the top of this page), which means courses would be taught online and most employees would be working from home. In addition to monitoring the current case count, Seminary leadership is also monitoring the upcoming election and has discussed possible campus safety considerations, should they be needed.

Travel Policy Reminder

As you consider your holiday plans, please keep in mind the Seminary’s travel policy.

• Avoid personal non-essential travel whenever possible.
  • If you travel internationally, take a cruise, or go to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus /Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time, so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
    • If you are unable to work from home during these 14 days, you may use sick leave during the quarantine period.
  • You are required to report your travel both to international countries and domestic states where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases and your returning quarantine to your supervisor.

Spring Semester Plans

Faculty are putting the finishing touches on Spring Semester plans. At this time, we anticipate the Spring Semester looking much like the Fall Semester with most classes meeting online and some in person. Worship will also likely continue online.

Peace to you,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

The Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet each week. Now that the campus has reopened and our Health and Safety Plan is being implemented, the Committee has turned its attention to ensuring the Seminary is able to thrive post-pandemic. We certainly don’t know when the pandemic will come to an end or how higher education, ministry, or our lives will be changed in the meantime, but the group is considering a number of future scenarios even in a time of great uncertainty.

Additionally, members of the committee meet regularly with others from the Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) schools (such as Pitt, CMU, Duquesne, etc.) as well as leaders from the Allegheny County and Pennsylvania departments of health to stay informed about how other schools are managing their response to the pandemic and to stay informed about the latest health and safety guidance. In the event that a member of the PTS community tests positive for COVID-19, and identifies themselves as such, the Allegheny County Health Department has a process in place to contact the Seminary with this information. 

COVID Alert PA App

As a reminder, the COVID Alert PA app is now available. To date, more than 256,000 people have downloaded the app across the state.

COVID Alert PA is the official mobile app by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. We strongly encourage all members of the Seminary community to download the app to help stop the spread of the virus. Search “COVID alert” or “COVID PA” in your App Store or Play Store or use these direct links:

Google Play Store:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.pa.covidtracker

Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/covid-alert-pennsylvania/id1527125511

After you download COVID Alert PA to your smartphone, you can opt-in to receive alerts if you have had a potential exposure to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Downloading the app is voluntary, but the more Pennsylvanians that use this app, the more successful our efforts will be to stop the spread of COVID-19. Getting timely alerts can help you get advice on how to help yourself and protect others as well as determine when to get testing. It can help reduce your risk of unknowingly spreading the virus to your friends, family, and larger community. This app uses the Exposure Notification System provided by Apple and Google.

No worries—the COVID Alert PA protects your privacy and personal information. The app detects if users are in close contact with another app user using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. It is the same technology that your phone uses to connect to wireless headphones or your car. The app does not use GPS, location services, or any movement or geographical information. Note: The app will never collect, transmit, or store your personal information and is completely anonymous. Learn more online: https://www.pa.gov/covid/covid-alert-pa/.

Thanks,

David Esterline, President

As a reminder, the COVID Alert PA app is now available. To date, more than 175,000 people have downloaded the app across the state.

COVID Alert PA is the official mobile app by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. We strongly encourage all members of the Seminary community to download the app to help stop the spread of the virus. Search “COVID alert” or “COVID PA” in your App Store or Play Store or use these direct links:

Google Play Store:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.pa.covidtracker

Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/covid-alert-pennsylvania/id1527125511

After you download COVID Alert PA to your smartphone, you can opt-in to receive alerts if you have had a potential exposure to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Downloading the app is voluntary, but the more Pennsylvanians that use this app, the more successful our efforts will be to stop the spread of COVID-19. Getting timely alerts can help you get advice on how to help yourself and protect others as well as determine when to get testing. It can help reduce your risk of unknowingly spreading the virus to your friends, family, and larger community. This app uses the Exposure Notification System provided by Apple and Google.

No worries—the COVID Alert PA protects your privacy and personal information. The app detects if users are in close contact with another app user using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. It is the same technology that your phone uses to connect to wireless headphones or your car. The app does not use GPS, location services, or any movement or geographical information. Note: The app will never collect, transmit, or store your personal information and is completely anonymous. Learn more online: https://www.pa.gov/covid/covid-alert-pa/.

Thanks,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

It’s now been more than six months that the Seminary community has been dealing with the coronavirus and its implications for our campus—emergency shift to online learning, working remotely, phased reopening, wearing masks on campus, and keeping our physical distance from one another, among other changes in our daily lives. Thank you for your ongoing patience, cooperation, and prayers for our institution and our neighbors around the globe during this time.

COVID Alert PA App Now Available

COVID Alert PA is the official mobile app by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. We strongly encourage all members of the Seminary community to download the app to help stop the spread of the virus. Search “COVID alert” or “COVID PA” in your App Store or Play Store or use these direct links:

• Google Play Store:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.pa.covidtracker
• Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/covid-alert-pennsylvania/id1527125511

After you download COVID Alert PA to your smartphone, you can opt-in to receive alerts if you have had a potential exposure to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Downloading the app is voluntary, but the more Pennsylvanians that use this app, the more successful our efforts will be to stop the spread of COVID-19. Getting timely alerts can help you get advice on how to help yourself and protect others as well as determine when to get testing. It can help reduce your risk of unknowingly spreading the virus to your friends, family, and larger community. This app uses the Exposure Notification System provided by Apple and Google.

No worries—the COVID Alert PA protects your privacy and personal information. The app detects if users are in close contact with another app user using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. It is the same technology that your phone uses to connect to wireless headphones or your car. The app does not use GPS, location services, or any movement or geographical information. Note: The app will never collect, transmit, or store your personal information and is completely anonymous. Learn more online: https://www.pa.gov/covid/covid-alert-pa/.

J-Term Courses Offered Remotely

All courses—master’s, DMin, and CP&R—will be delivered remotely during the Seminary’s 2021 January Term. Though we will offer our Intercultural Experiential Learning course, no international travel will occur at this time. More information about specific courses will be available soon. As previously noted, decisions regarding the Spring Semester will be made by early November.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Academic Planning

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet regularly. This week we started to make plans for the January Term and Spring Semester. J-Term academic decisions will be shared by the beginning of October; Spring Semester decisions by early November.

Contact Tracing

Pennsylvania is set to release the State’s anonymous contract tracing app later this month called “COVID Alert PA.” The app will be available in the app stores on Apple and Android devices. The app will use Bluetooth signals to determine your proximity to another device using the app and will notify you if you have been in proximity of someone who has been verified as testing positive for COVID-19. This app will also provide additional guidance, depending on the situation, and contact information for the PA Department of Health. Since this will be Pennsylvania’s officially supported anonymous contact tracing app, as well as provide a powerful tool to local contact tracers, we are strongly encouraging the community to download and use it. More details will follow as information is released.

Flu Shots

The Seminary will offer an on-campus flu shot clinic Wed., Sept. 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. If you are interested in participating, please contact Tom Hinds today. Remember to bring your insurance card and to complete the form in advance. Please watch your e-mail for additional information.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Executive Assistant to the President and Secretary to the Board of Directors Andy Greenhow is my right hand and a wise colleague. In today’s reflection (the last Friday message for the time being), he reminds us of God’s gift of grace. May we remember to offer each other that same grace in these ofttimes stressful days.

Peace,

David Esterline, President

___

Lately, I’ve been running on trails for health, sanity, and the occasional spiritual experience. On one run on the Rachel Carson Trail, I was made to feel very much at peace. My fear about the world felt so far away. In particular, the taxonomies I create and limitations to which I cling so that I can order and judge the world felt silly and irrelevant.

In this precious moment, the gap between the world as it is and the world as I think it should be didn’t matter so much. The trail, which I normally would kvetch is too rocky, steep, or muddy, was simply itself. I wasn’t afraid of the animals around me; they were just doing their thing. I didn’t covet fellow runner Bala’s training discipline (and speed) or Scott’s strong chin (and speed) as I usually do. Creation was itself and I was myself; just as we were.

Then, I tripped and hurtled down a steep embankment. The spell was broken, and I was bloodied. I was weak of will, weak of chin, and slow of foot again. The world was a calamity again.

On I run, trying to remember that there is grace to be found somewhere in the gap between what is and what should be. For me and for creation. I hope you find it, too.

Andy Greenhow

PTS Community,

Today’s update includes a number of reminders. As we settle into the fall semester, please direct coronavirus response questions to Jim Downey at Click to view e-mail.

Campus Reopening

The Seminary entered Phase 2 of our campus reopening plan Aug. 26. Our sincere thanks and appreciation to the maintenance crew for ensuring the campus was ready for the reopening and for continuing to clean and disinfect high traffic areas. And thanks to those who’ve been on campus and followed the health and safety measures outlined in our reopening plan found to the right.                 

Reminder: All faculty, staff, students, guests, and contractors/vendors must complete the online health screening questionnaire before returning to campus for the first time and then again if their health conditions change. If circumstances warrant, we may periodically ask the full community to complete the questionnaire again.

Reminder: Please wear your PTS OneCard/ID badge when on campus. Exterior doors are locked. If you forget your ID card, enter through the main entrance of Long Hall and check in at Reception. All visitors to campus must enter through the Long Hall main entrance and go to the Reception Office to complete the health screening questionnaire. When entering buildings, please refrain from holding open the door for others. Each person badging in will help provide accurate records to use if we have a positive case of COVID-19 on campus and must do contact tracing.

At this time, the chapel building remains closed for individual prayer or corporate worship. Other spaces are available on campus should anyone wish to gather in small groups (socially distanced and while wearing masks). Available spaces are unlocked during the day. Occupancy limits are posted outside usable rooms.

Blessings to each of you as we begin this new academic year.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

I’m grateful for today’s reflection, written by Dr. Edith Humphrey, William F. Orr Professor of New Testament. Dr. Humphrey reminds us of the goodness of living life at a slower pace, actually seeing the people (and puppies) in our neighborhoods, and the gift of God walking along side us. I pray that in the days ahead we each find ways to truly take time for others.

David Esterline, President

_____

I suspect that some of you, like me, are experiencing “pandemic fatigue!” For me, this means not simply irritation with our limitations, and concerns about the health of friends and family, but also the constant chatter about our circumstances. Coronavirus may be invisible, but it seems to be everywhere present—and it is NOT a comforting presence, as with the Third Person of the Holy Trinity!

Nevertheless, it is helpful for us to contemplate our situation, without getting fixated upon it, as though it were the only thing that matters. To be honest, though I have missed face-to-face time with students and colleagues, and am not thrilled about going online for classes and for my routine fall conferences, there have been very good things about this change in pace. One of these is more face time with my beloved cavadoodle, Angus, who just turned a year old: he has made it clear that he needs three walks a day, and I can give it to him because of our flexibility. These routine walks have meant, too, that I have come to know all the dog-walkers, porch-sitters, and joggers for blocks around, including their names, the names of their pets and kids, and sometimes what they do. There are the families of two little girls, both named Vivien (who would have anticipated that?) who live within six houses of each other. There is Sarah, who is doing speech therapy with children by Zoom. There is Ron, a small white-haired man who looks like a leprechaun, who walks every day, and stops to pat Angus. There is Teresa, who cares for her elderly mother living across the street. There is Julie, who has a pup named Benjie and who loves plants and works in the Uber administration. There is Lillian, who just lost her mom (also named Lillian), and is cleaning out the old house. There is the owner of Pixie (a little white dog) who is a hairdresser, and lost his job during the pandemic, because the place where he worked almost folded. There are Eric and Emily, who have just had a new baby: Eric is still jogging, while Emily is recovering. So many faces, so many stories, so many needs. 

Extrovert that I am, I have loved getting to know them all, and when they aren’t on the porch or walking/jogging at the same time that I do, I say a little prayer for them as I walk by our usual meeting spot. Before the pandemic, I would hurriedly walk Angus, get back to the house, and get ready to teach or go to meetings. Then after supper, I would quickly walk him again. It seems so much more human to walk in a leisurely way, and to chat without whomever one meets. And it brings opportunities: to help, to comfort, to even talk about Jesus, or to pray for that person at home.

As I reflect on this, I remember my spiritual advisor telling me, when I was contemplating a big decision, that God is not in a hurry. Consider both how God “walked” with Adam and Eve in the cool of the garden, and how, after Holy Week, Jesus walked and communed with Cleopas and his friend, on the way to Emmaus. Our Lord has told us, through His apostle, that it is also our responsibility to “redeem the time” (Eph. 5:16). I used to think that this meant to cram every moment full of activity: now I know better! One of the gifts of our confinement has been my ability not to be so rushed, and to truly take time for people. Not having to be constantly efficient is a gift! I hope that as things slowly return to “normal” that I can carry this new pace with me, remembering that God always has time for me, and so I can always have time for others.

Edith M. Humphrey

PTS Community,

Campus Reopening

The Seminary began our phased reopening Aug. 12. All is going well. Thanks to each of you for your cooperation!

During Phases 1 and 2, the Seminary’s main entrances will be accessible by keycard only. Be sure to have your Seminary ID card with you at all times! Visitors must enter through the front doors of Long Hall and proceed to the Reception Desk to sign in and out and answer health-screening questions.

Also note, at any time during these phases, the Seminary may need to close the campus and return to full remote operations. We will consult state, federal, and health guidelines in making these decisions. Following any required closures, we would reopen campus likely using a phased approach.

At this time, we plan to move into Phase 2 next Wed., Aug. 26.

• In Phase 2, the campus will be open to all faculty, staff, and students.
• During this time, instruction will take place through a mix of on-campus and remote instruction.
• Telework is expected unless your supervisor has determined you should report to campus.
• Employees with “essential access” may come and go as needed; those granted “frequent access” may be on campus 2-3 days/week and those with “infrequent access” may be on campus once every two weeks. Supervisors will communicate to employees their level of campus access.
• Meetings should continue via online tools.
• If on campus, employees are encouraged to work in their offices and refrain from gathering in groups.
• Students can resume in-person gatherings but must do so in spaces allowing for adequate social distancing.
• All persons on campus must wear a mask while present in community spaces and socially distance from others.
• Anyone who is feeling unwell should not come onto campus. Until otherwise determined, Seminary-sponsored events will occur online.
• The Museum will remain closed.
• Barbour Library resources will be available for pick up by all faculty, staff, and students; the 24/7 space will be accessible to the PTS community; and staff will be available at the front desk to answer research questions. Please see the Barbour Library Operational Level 3, found in the Appendix of the Health and Safety Plan, for more information. The plan is linked to the right.
• When returning to campus for the first time, all students, faculty, and staff must complete an online health screening form and watch a short video detailing updated health and safety protocols. 

J-Term and Spring Semester Instruction

The Seminary is beginning to consider how best to deliver certificate, master’s, and DMin instruction during the January Term and Spring Semester. We will make decisions by the first week of October for the J-Term and by early November for the Spring Semester. Thank you for your patience as the faculty and Coronavirus Response Team consider the options.

Reopening and In-Person Courses FAQ

Thanks for your questions about the details of reopening. The following FAQ responds to the questions received as of Aug. 13, 2020. If questions arise that are not covered below, please be in touch with Jim Downey (Click to view e-mail) or Dean Heather Vacek (hvacek@pts.edu).

This FAQ supplements the Seminary’s Reopening Health and Safety Plan, which is linked in the right column.

The fall course schedule (which lists course delivery formats) can be found on the Registrar's page. Note that all DMin and CPR classes will meet in fully remote format this fall.

If you have additional questions after reviewing these FAQs or want to learn more about the reopening for Fall Semester, join Tom Fulton, Dave Middleton, Ayana Teter, and Heather Vacek Tues., Aug. 25 at 6:00 p.m. or Wed., Aug. 26 at 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. Check your PTS e-mail for the Zoom information. 

The Reopening Plan states that PTS is moving to Phase 2 Aug. 26, 2020? Is that move contingent on any external factors?

Yes. All anticipated dates are subject to change based on public health requirements and maintaining the safety of the Seminary community. With that said, we currently expect to be able to move to Phase 2 Aug. 26, assuming that Allegheny County does not move to a Yellow or Red designation.

What does a student need to establish to be able to watch the lectures remotely? Is this option available to any student who is simply uncomfortable with returning to campus for classroom instruction?

All classes with in-person/on campus components will also be broadcast live via Zoom. Any students who wish to attend lectures/classes remotely should be in touch with Dean Vacek and their faculty member. Remote access is available for any student (for direct medical or precautionary reasons) for the full semester, or as needed throughout the fall.

Will students taking the class remotely have access to all the same resources that students do who are attending in person? If so, what efforts will the school undertake to ensure that this, in fact, happens?

Though physical presence can be approximated but not exactly replicated via remote teaching and learning, we will provide equivalent access to needed resources for all students. For example, handouts and other course materials that may be handed out in class will be posted on the course portal or e-mailed. We’ve made as many library resources as possible available electronically. If you have questions about other resources, please contact your faculty member or Dean Vacek.

Will a space be available that we can sit and do work before class? How long before class will we be allowed in the building?

Yes. Beginning Aug. 26, currently enrolled students can be on campus before, during, and after classes in designated spaces in Long Hall for individual study or group meetings. These spaces in Long Hall (most classrooms) will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All social distancing guidelines must be followed. Socially distanced room capacities will be posted on rooms that are available; unavailable classroom spaces will be locked. Security will monitor these spaces. A daily cleaning regimen will include all available rooms. Throughout the fall semester, we’ll evaluate whether these spaces provide adequate capacity for student needs.

Can student groups meet on campus?    

Yes, within bounds of social distancing and room capacity requirements.

What are library capacities for study space?

Only the 24/7 area of the library will be available during the fall semester. However, please note that it will not actually be open 24/7 - limited hours of operation will be in place. Social distancing requirements will limit capacity in all spaces, including the café, computer lab, lounge, and meeting room.

May masks be removed to eat or drink on campus or must they be worn at all times? Will it will be possible for 2.5 hour classes to have breaks? Can students leave the classroom at the same time?

Yes, masks may be removed to eat or drink but then should be put on again afterwards. Students and faculty may leave classrooms at the same time, as long as they practice social distancing. Because only one in-person class is scheduled at a time, we do not anticipate capacity issues in hallways or restrooms.

Given that we are required to wear our ID at all times, will the school be providing a lanyard?  

Lanyards will be available at the Reception Desk during daytime business hours. During evening hours, spare lanyards will be hung on the Reception door. The Seminary will provide one lanyard for each student and employee. If you need a picture ID, please contact Lisa Bunting (Click to view e-mail). If you forget your ID and need access to the buildings, call Security (412-889-2208) and they will let you in. You must then report to Reception Desk to check in.

What are the "main doors" that we should have access to? What happens if our card doesn't work?

Students/employees will have access to all doors with their IDs. The “main door” is the door in Long facing Highland Ave. This is for guests and visitors although students/employees may also enter this door. Call Security (412-889-2208) if your ID does not work.

Will a staff member be on campus during the evenings in the event there is an issue?

Security will be on site in the evenings and weekends in case there is an issue. In addition, a member of the IT team will be on campus to assist with all hybrid class sessions.

Will the Seminary assign specific doors as entrances and exits?

There are no specific doors that must be used for students and employees as entrances and exits. Student/employee IDs will grant access to any door. Guests must enter through the main door, Long Hall. Everyone must wear a mask and maintain social distance when entering and exiting buildings.

Other than an outbreak at the school, at what point would PTS consider switching entirely to remote learning?

If public health conditions or requirements necessitate, we will revert to fully remote teaching and learning. If such a change is needed, we will give as much notice as possible. All classes with in-person elements have fully online back up plans in place, should such a change be needed. Before students, faculty, and staff return to the campus for the first time, they must complete an online health-screening questionnaire and watch a short video about updated health and safety protocols. Both can be found online: https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire. You should also re-complete the survey any time your symptoms change.

When do students need to fill out the return to campus questionnaire? Do you have to fill it out if you won’t be on campus?

Students who will be on campus, including campus grounds and campus housing, should fill out the questionnaire before classes begin and if symptoms change. For the health of the Seminary community, PTS may ask students and employees to fill out the questionnaire periodically as the pandemic continues.

Will PTS immediately notify students and faculty if someone in our classroom tests positive for the virus or someone who lives in their household does?  

Allegheny County provides official contract tracing for all confirmed cases. We will share information and take needed precautions should someone who has been on campus identify symptoms to us before test confirmation. We will continue to notify the community of confirmed cases. We encourage students and employees to exercise caution if they think they may have had contact with someone carrying the virus. It will be possible throughout the fall for students to attend class remotely and for faculty and staff to work remotely.

Missing classes often comes with grade consequences. Given the possibility that a student could get the virus on campus and will have to miss more than one class, what happens in this instance?

As with any illness, contact the faculty member and/or Dean Vacek should you become ill and are unable to attend class or complete assignments. Professional documentation of illness may be required for students to obtain short-term or long-term accommodations for completing course work. Attendance will be taken for online class sessions. Asynchronous course content will require timely engagement with course content, materials, and assignments.

Will Fall Semester courses be Pass/Fail?

No. The Pass/Fail provision was put in place during the spring 2020 semester because of the abrupt, emergency nature of the conversion to online instruction.

At what point do you anticipate moving into Phase 3 of the Reopening Plan?  

We will continue to monitor public health conditions closely. We do not anticipate moving into Phase 3 until an official declaration of the end of the pandemic is made by government officials. (It could be a long time before we move into Phase 3.)

What if my Internet access isn’t strong?

Whether you live on-campus or off-campus, the Seminary has secured personal WiFi devices for students (MiFis). Contact Dave Middleton (Click to view e-mail) for access to a unit.

What will happen if someone refuses to wear a mask on campus?

Masks are required for all individuals two years and older. Extra masks will be provided at the Reception Office. Should a student or employee want to petition not to wear a mask (for medical or other reasons), they must be in touch with Dean Vacek (students) or Tom Hinds (employees) with documentation of the rationale for the request. Requests for exemptions to the face covering policy may or may not be granted. No exemptions for the masking policy will be made for guests. Those who refuse to wear masks will be asked to leave campus. Campus Security may be called to escort those not in compliance off campus.

Is there any requirement that faculty meet students in person for advising or other academic reasons? 

No. All advising and other meetings between students and faculty can take place by phone or Zoom.

Will there be in-person office hours for the Registrar? For the Associate Dean of Students?

Generally, no. Contact these staff members for appointments via Zoom or phone. Work from home remains the standard for employees at this time.

How do students access the Writing Center staff for tutoring?

Contact Holly McKelvey to make an appointment with one of the staff members, who will have regular hours of availability, as in the past. One-to-one tutoring and group workshops will be held online via Zoom.

With the drinking fountains turned off, how will we get drinking water?

We will provide bottled water for students/employees but encourage everyone to bring their own water bottle and water.

When will we know more what the format of January Term and Spring Semester classes?

We will communicate plans for January 2021 classes by early October. We will communicate plans for the Spring Semester in November.

When will the Business Office be reopened for student/resident engagement?

While we encourage e-mail communication as much as possible, the Business Office will open for in-person transactions when Phase 2 begins (Aug. 26). The Business Office will be open Monday-Thursday 9:00 a.m.‑ 12:00 p.m. and 1:00‑4:00 p.m. and Friday 9:00 a.m.‑ 12:00 p.m.

Will there be any food provided on campus?

No food will be provided in the main Cafeteria or in the Library Café. Vending machines on the ground floor of Long Hall and in Calian Hall will be stocked.

Will the ATM be working?

Yes.

May I bring my child with me to class since school not in session live?

Yes, if approved by your faculty member and Dean Vacek. Like all visitors, children must follow all safety protocols.           

Is there anything people need to bring to campus?

Bring/wear a mask. Bring your own food and water. Bring any personal hand sanitizer that you would like to supplement the hand sanitizer provided by the Seminary.

If we are studying remotely and living away from our campus apartments, will we be able to pay a reduced rent during the months that we are away from PTS campus?

Yes, we offer a 50 percent rent credit for any full months that you are living away from your apartment while leaving your personal belongings in the apartment. If you’re interested in this option, contact Jane Larson (jlarson@pts.edu) in the Business Office.

If students are experiencing financial difficulty as a result of the pandemic, what help is available?

Students experiencing financial hardship should contact Ayana Teter to discuss dollars made available through the Student Sustainer Fund and the Swart Student Emergency Fund.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

This week Director of the World Mission Initiative Hunter Farrell provides a video message in which he reflects on his time in the early 2000s in Peru. There the cultural understanding is that without the blessing of every hand the mission cannot be a success. By contrast, in a society such as ours that values “rugged individualism,” when times are tough—like the times of extended disruption that we’re in now—we tend to lock our doors, hunker down, and work harder. But the more difficult our challenges, the more we need each other. Hunter challenges us instead to unlock our doors and reach out to our neighbors. These are indeed difficult days, and I’m grateful for colleagues like Hunter who remind us that we can look forward together. Click on the image below or follow the link to watch Hunter’s video: https://youtu.be/ID9LmYgIvvM.  

Peace to each of you,

David Esterline, President

____

Aug. 5, 2020

PTS Community,

Below you will find lengthy and important information regarding the Seminary’s reopening and the plan in place to keep our community safe as we return to campus. Please take the time to review this information and the Health and Safety plan. (The plan is linked at the top of this page.) As needed, the plan will continue to be adjusted to meet our needs and in accordance with new state and health guidance. After reviewing this information, please let us know your questions or concerns. You can reach Jim Downey at Click to view e-mail.

Campus Reopening

Pittsburgh Seminary intends to reopen the campus and associated operations using a phased process. Each phase is described below.

Note, during Phases 1 and 2, the Seminary’s main entrances will be accessible by keycard only. Be sure to have your Seminary ID card with you at all times! Visitors must enter through the front doors of Long Hall and proceed to the Reception Desk to sign in and out and answer health-screening questions.

Also note, at any time during these phases, the Seminary may need to close the campus and return to full remote operations. We will consult state, federal, and health guidelines in making these decisions. Following any required closures, we would reopen campus likely using a phased approach.

Phase 1: Aug. 12, 2020

• In Phase 1, the campus will reopen to some faculty and staff and all summer students (those enrolled in summer courses, plus DMin and Church Planting and Revitalization students).
• During this time, online learning will continue.
• Telework is required.
• Meetings should continue via online tools.
• When on campus, employees with “essential access” may come and go as needed and are encouraged to work in their offices (as opposed to public lounges, the library, Kadel Dining Room, classrooms, etc.) and refrain from gathering in groups. Supervisors will communicate to employees their level of campus access.
• All persons on campus must wear a mask while present in community spaces and socially distance from others.
• Anyone who is feeling unwell should not come onto campus.
• Seminary-sponsored public events will occur online.
• The Museum will remain closed.
• Barbour Library resources will be available to faculty and summer students (those enrolled in summer course, DMin, and CP&R) through pickup. Please see the Barbour Library Operational Level 2, found in the Appendix of the Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan, for more information.
• The Seminary’s previously communicated access policy is no longer valid for employees.
• When returning to campus for the first time, all students, faculty, and staff must complete an online health screening form and watch a short video detailing updated health and safety protocols. https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire

Phase 2: Aug. 26, 2020

• In Phase 2, the campus will be open to all faculty, staff, and students.
• During this time, instruction will take place through a mix of on-campus and remote instruction.
• Telework is expected unless your supervisor has determined you should report to campus.
• Employees with “essential access” may come and go as needed; those granted “frequent access” may be on campus 2-3 days/week and those with “infrequent access” may be on campus once every two weeks. Supervisors will communicate to employees their level of campus access.
• Meetings should continue via online tools.
• If on campus, employees are encouraged to work in their offices and refrain from gathering in groups.
• Students can resume in-person gatherings but must do so in spaces allowing for adequate social distancing.
• All persons on campus must wear a mask while present in community spaces and socially distance from others.
•  Anyone who is feeling unwell should not come onto campus. Until otherwise determined, Seminary-sponsored events will occur online.
• The Museum will remain closed.
• Barbour Library resources will be available for pick up by all faculty, staff, and students; the 24/7 space will be accessible to the PTS community; and staff will be available at the front desk to answer research questions. Please see the Barbour Library Operational Level 3, found in the Appendix of the Health and Safety Plan, for more information. The plan is linked at the top of this page.
• When returning to campus for the first time, all students, faculty, and staff must complete an online health screening form and watch a short video detailing updated health and safety protocols. https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire

Health and Safety Plan

Pittsburgh Seminary is committed to the health and wellbeing of our community—students, staff, faculty, and neighbors. To that end and in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the Seminary has written as set of protocols which constitute our COVID-19 health and safety plan. This document provides guidance regarding the Seminary’s Phased Reopening Plan, Campus Safety—Physical and Operations; Human Resources and Work Policies; Health Monitoring and Support; Academic Programs; Tenants; Groups, Meetings, Gatherings and Events; Food Service; and Communications.  Additional information is included in the appendices. A summary of the plan is below.

As noted above, the Seminary will reopen in phases (Phase 1: Aug. 12, Phase 2: Aug. 26, Phase 3: TBD). Before students, faculty, and staff can return to the campus for the first time, they must complete an online health-screening questionnaire and watch a short video about updated health and safety protocols. Both can be found online: https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire. The Seminary will clean and disinfect high-touch and common areas at least once per day in accordance with CDC guidance.

While on campus, all persons must wear a face covering and abide by social distancing guidelines. Additionally, a PTS ID badge must be visibly worn, and all exterior entrance doors will require key card access. Visitors to campus—including those persons visiting tenant organizations—must enter through the front entrance of Long Hall and proceed to the Reception Office to complete the health-screening questionnaire and obtain a visitor ID badge. Persons inviting guests to campus are expected to greet the visitor at Reception and lead them to the meeting location.

During Phases 1 and 2, employees will continue telecommuting unless otherwise determined by their supervisors. The fall semester will include a mix of on-campus and remote instruction. When meeting on campus, classes will gather in spaces allowing for proper social distancing, and students and faculty must wear face coverings. Meetings should continue through online tools. Events and gatherings are expected to occur online. Seminary-sponsored travel is prohibited at this time.

The Museum remains closed. Barbour Library will be open to the PTS community to varying degrees during this time. Food service will not be available this fall though the Kadel Dining Hall will be open.

The Seminary will coordinate with local public health officials to inform the Pennsylvania Department of Health in the event that transmission of COVID-19 occurs at the institution. We will monitor health conditions of our community and, if needed, implement our strategy to mitigate and contain the spread of the virus on campus.

Tenant organizations on campus must follow the Seminary’s health and safety plan.

The Seminary will continue to communicate with our community at least weekly with updates about how we are addressing the pandemic and working to keep our faculty, staff, students, and neighbors safe while continuing our core mission of educating students.

Return to Campus Survey Results

Thanks to the faculty and staff who completed the return to campus survey included in last week’s Coronavirus update. According to the results, faculty and staff are about 50/50 in their comfort level with returning to campus. Concerns about the health and safety of co-workers and students, followed by the health of family members and oneself, are the factors most considered as we prepare to return to campus. Be sure to read the Seminary’s Health and Safety Plan and watch the Return to Campus video. The protocols in place may help to ease some concerns about returning to campus.

As we begin to reopen campus, please be in touch with questions or concerns.

David Esterline, President

July 29, 2020

PTS Community,

Campus Reopening

For faculty and staff: As the Seminary begins our phased reopening, likely mid-August, the Coronavirus Response Team wants to learn more about the factors faculty and staff weigh as you think about returning to work on campus. Please complete this brief, four-question survey by Friday to help CRT be as prepared as possible for your return to campus: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XG3WRD7. Most employees will continue to telecommute even during the phased reopening.

For faculty, staff, and students: As noted above, the Seminary anticipates the campus to begin reopening mid-August. In Phase 1, the campus will reopen to faculty, staff, and summer students (those enrolled in summer courses, plus DMin and Church Planting and Revitalization students). Phase 2 of the reopening plan will begin in time for the fall semester, which begins Aug. 31.

• During Phase 1, online learning will continue and telework is required.
• Meetings should continue via online tools.
• When on campus, employees are encouraged to work in their offices (as opposed to public lounges, the library, Kadel Dining Room, classrooms, etc.) and refrain from gathering in groups.
• All persons on campus must wear a mask while present in community spaces and socially distance from others.
• Anyone who is feeling unwell should not come onto campus.
• Seminary-sponsored public events will occur online.
• The Museum and food service will remain closed.
• Barbour Library resources will be available to faculty and summer students (those enrolled in summer course, DMin, and CP&R) through pickup.
• The Seminary’s previously communicated access policy is no longer valid.
• When returning to campus for the first time, all students, faculty, and staff must complete an online health-screening form and watch a short video detailing updated health and safety protocols. The video will be available shortly. Meantime, the health-screening forming can be found here: https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

This Friday’s reflection comes from Tom Hinds, vice president for finance and administration. I am always grateful for Tom’s leadership in the business office and his expertise in financial and administration matters. But this week I am also grateful for the pastoral touch with which he does his work—especially significant in these difficult days.

David Esterline, President

____

My wife Cindy reads the D365.Org daily devotionals faithfully. When she finds one she really likes, our kids and I get a text suggesting that we might want to read it, too. Perhaps, it will speak to us, like the Spirit spoke to her. This Wednesday’s devotion, Be Together, linked here, was one of those. I thought maybe it was a hint that we needed to spend more time together; for me to be more attentive. But as I read, I realized it was much more than that. One of the impacts of COVID-19 is that we cannot be together. We cannot give a hug or handshake to someone we love, someone we meet, a friend, a neighbor, or, hardest of all, someone in pain.

With the organizational restructuring announced last week, the day-to-day presence of a co-worker or even a friend is lost, even when we haven’t been to campus in several months. We cherish those times when we are together. It is the gift of presence, it is being together with one another, especially with the ones you love, that brings us joy, contentment, and happiness, and that we miss being able to give when we know others are struggling.

Of course, it isn’t just presence that we’re called to provide. James 2:8-13 is asking us to love our neighbor as ourselves. Jesus tells us that our neighbor is everyone, not just the ones we like. Even in this word divided over politics, race, gender, immigration status, ethnicity, and more, we are called to love everyone, not just the ones we like. I like the phase “Love with wild abandon” in the Think section.  It is really a call to action to love everyone – those you like, those you don’t, those you agree with, those you don’t, those who are easy to love, those who are not, those who are friendly, those who are not!

I’ve learned a lot from Cindy about presence and loving generously and graciously. She is quick to hug, listen, talk and be present. She understands the gift of presence. As we mourn those who are no longer present with us as they once were, I pray that we can give the gift of presence to the ones we love and the ones harder to love and that we can learn to “love with wild abandon.”

Tom Hinds

PTS Community,

As previously noted, the Coronavirus Response Team (Jim Downey, David Esterline, Charles Fischer, Tom Fulton, Andy Greenhow, Tom Hinds, Melissa Logan, Dave Middleton, Tracy Riggle Young, Ayana Teter, and Heather Vacek) meets weekly to continue working on details regarding the Seminary’s response to COVID-19, including the required health and safety plan, which must be available to the public before reopening. We will share this plan with you in the weeks ahead. We will also provide some updated information during upcoming town halls.

Campus Reopening

Some may be wondering when the Seminary campus will begin our phased reopening. We are monitoring closely the COVID-19 case count in Allegheny County and routinely communicating with county and state health professionals about next steps. At this time, we’re considering decisions in two-week blocks and will NOT begin reopening in the next 14 days. Please note that even when we do enter into Phase 1 of the reopening plan, telecommuting will be required unless one’s supervisor has determined otherwise. Upon reopening, masks and social distancing will be required in all public spaces and visible PTS ID badges must be worn when on campus.

A short training video about new, required health and safety protocols for returning to campus will be available soon. If you plan to visit campus in the meantime, please complete the health screening questionnaire, found here: https://www.pts.edu/pts-covid19-visitor-questionnaire

Fall Courses

You’ll find a listing of fall courses and anticipated delivery modes on the Registrar's page of the website.

PTS Travel Policy Reminder

Last week we shared the Seminary’s travel policy, see below. Please note that since that time, Pennsylvania has added additional states to the list of areas requiring quarantine upon return to PA.

• All Seminary-related travel is considered non-essential until otherwise indicated.
• If you must travel for seminary purposes, your supervisor must approve the travel in advance or it will not be reimbursed.
  • If you travel internationally or to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
• Avoid personal non-essential travel whenever possible.
  • If you travel internationally, take a cruise, or go to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
    • If you are unable to work from home during these 14 day, you may use sick leave during the quarantine period.
  • You are required to report your travel both to international countries and domestic states where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases and your returning quarantine to your supervisor.

With thanks for your patience,
David Esterline, President 

PTS Community,

As previously noted, CRT meets weekly to continue working on details regarding the Seminary’s response to COVID-19, including the required health and safety plan, which must be available to the public before reopening. We will share this plan with you in the weeks ahead.

Campus Reopening

Some may be wondering when the Seminary campus will begin our phased reopening. We are monitoring closely the COVID-19 case count in Allegheny County and routinely communicating with county and state health professionals about next steps. At this time, we’re considering decisions in two-week blocks and will NOT begin reopening in the next 14 days. Please note that even when we do enter into Phase 1 of the reopening plan, telecommuting will be required unless one’s supervisor has determined otherwise. Upon reopening, masks and social distancing will be required in all public spaces and visible PTS ID badges must be worn when on campus. Also, members of the PTS community will be required to complete an online health screening questionnaire and watch a short training video about new, required health and safety protocols before returning to campus for the first time.

PTS Travel Policy Reminder

Last week we shared the Seminary’s travel policy, see below. Please note that since that time, Pennsylvania has added four additional states to the list of areas requiring quarantine upon return to PA.

• All Seminary-related travel is considered non-essential until otherwise indicated.
• If you must travel for seminary purposes, your supervisor must approve the travel in advance or it will not be reimbursed.
  • If you travel internationally or to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
• Avoid personal non-essential travel whenever possible.
  • If you travel internationally, take a cruise, or go to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
    • If you are unable to work from home during these 14 day, you may use sick leave during the quarantine period.
  • You are required to report your travel both to international countries and domestic states where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases and your returning quarantine to your supervisor.

With thanks for your patience,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

For the remainder of the summer, I’ll share these Friday reflections on a bi-weekly basis. Here Professor of Urban Ministry Drew Smith reminds us of our responsibility as Christians to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God, even in these times of sheltering-in-place.

David Esterline, President

_____

The past 2 1/2 months have been a time of sheltering-in-place at our home in Indianapolis, exchanging greetings with neighbors of longstanding, and sprucing-up around the house, among other things. I’ve attempted as well to make good use of increased opportunities for reflection and writing afforded by the stationary nature of sheltering at home. But I’ve also been made aware there can be no complete sheltering when epidemics are raging.

While sitting by an open window in my study the evening of May 6, I heard what sounded like gun shots ringing-out in the distance. I learned later that evening from local news sources that a 21-year-old African American man named Dreasjon Reed had been killed by police after they pursued him several miles for reckless driving. Reed, who was live-streaming the entire episode via his cell phone, abandoned his vehicle a few blocks from my home and was attempting to run away from police when he was shot multiple times, mostly in the back. When viewing his bullet-ridden body, the black officer who shot Reed was caught on tape remarking that Reed was certainly going to need “a closed casket” at his funeral. Protests began in the neighborhood that evening, continued for days, and then segued with even larger protests throughout Indianapolis after the May 25 killing in Minneapolis of George Floyd. Clearly, for many there can be no sheltering from our national epidemic of violence.

On July 4, my wife and I ventured from Indianapolis to Bloomington to spend a little time in places we frequented when we lived there years ago, including the Indiana University campus where I taught and the Lake Monroe resort area. We reconnected with our former contexts in rich ways throughout the day, only to learn the next morning that shortly after we left Lake Monroe, a black man was accosted adjacent to the lake by a group of whites who roughed him up and threatened him with lynching. A protest march took place in Bloomington the next day, with protesters demanding that persons guilty of the assault be arrested. As the protest was winding down, a white female driver plowed into the protesters with her vehicle, requiring one person to be hospitalized. No arrests have been made related to the lakeside assault or the vehicular assault on the protesters. Nor have any charges been brought against the officer involved in the Reed shooting.

Certainly, there are points at which we need to shelter. Then there are times we need to mobilize against threats. May God grant us more conviction, courage, and capacity in our mobilizing and solidarity work.

Drew

July 8, 2020

PTS Community,

PTS Travel Policy

• All Seminary-related travel is considered non-essential until otherwise indicated.
  • If you must travel for seminary purposes, your supervisor must approve the travel in advance or it will not be reimbursed.
  • If you travel internationally or to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
• Avoid personal non-essential travel whenever possible.If you travel internationally, take a cruise, or go to a domestic location designated by the Pennsylvania Health Department as an area where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days, and you will not be allowed on campus during that time. The current list of states requiring quarantine can be found here: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx. This list may change over time so be sure to consult the current information before traveling.
  • If you are unable to work from home during these 14 day, you may use sick leave during the quarantine period.

You are required to report your travel both to international countries and domestic states where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases and your returning quarantine to your supervisor.

ICE Regulations Affecting PTS International Students 

On Monday we became aware of an update from ICE regarding international students. We are working on determining how best to serve our current and future international students given new regulations regarding online courses for the Fall 2020 semester.

Fall Course Delivery Plans

On the Seminary's website you’ll find an updated course schedule for the fall semester for all degree and certificate programs in both the master’s level and the Doctor of Ministry programs. This schedule replace the prior version

Students: We encourage you to look both at the delivery plans for your classes and at the notes and definitions that appear at the end of the schedule.

Here’s a brief summary of what follows:

• most instruction will continue to take place via remote delivery this fall, and
• we will engage in as much of our community life in person as conditions permit.

As you recall, in early June, we shared the two primary scenarios under consideration for fall instruction: a hybrid experience with in-person instruction when feasible and a fully online plan. We also noted that in the unanticipated event that public health guidelines present no restrictions to campus life and the safety of faculty, students, and staff can be assured, instruction could take place in an in-person format.

After thinking deeply about the details of each class and prioritizing both learning and the health of the community given what we know (and don’t know) about the possibilities for the continued spread of the virus, we’ve landed on a mostly online offering plan for the fall.

As is the case every semester, all classes – those that hope to have in-person elements and to be delivered remotely throughout the fall – have been designed to meet student learning outcomes and with student learning and formation as the key priorities. Pedagogical and health concerns are paired in these decisions. Any sessions that do meet in-person will be required to comply with all current PTS health and safety protocols such as social distancing and the wearing of face coverings.

You are likely aware that institutions of higher education have announced a variety of approaches to fall classes. Some have even revised plans announced previously. We do not plan to modify the attached plan, except if in-person meetings prove impossible at any point in the fall. Putting these delivery plans in place now allows faculty, students, and staff to anticipate schedule and details for the coming semester. It also allows these plans to be certain, even if public health conditions and related restrictions are not. With this plan in place, we will not have to switch delivery modes mid-stream, as was the case in the spring semester. Though spring instruction was delivered well and learning continued, we heard clearly from students, faculty and staff about the strains associated with that mid-semester disruption.

Faculty have already been thinking deeply about fall course details, including technology and synchronous and asynchronous elements of classes. Adept technological support from the seminary’s IT teams remains – and will remain – crucial in our planning and execution. We are not an online school, and do not plan to become one, but we’re tremendously fortunate to have such a skilled IT team to help us during this time.

Students and faculty are encouraged to be in conversation with one another both this summer and as the start of the fall semester nears, should any questions emerge.

What does all of this mean for the rest of our life together as a community? Though classes will be largely taught remotely, we will still seek to gather in person (in appropriate settings and group sizes) whenever possible for worship, fellowship, support, and for the work of student organizations. In addition, as conditions allow, after campus is able to open, faculty and staff will be available to meet with students individually on campus, as conditions allow. At this moment, it seems likely that face coverings and social distancing will be required at all times on campus this fall.

Most, if not all, of new student orientation will be delivered online. However, we want to be able to catch up with each other, welcome our incoming class of students, etc. and will do as much of this as possible in person. As we noted last month, students are encouraged to move (or move back) to campus in August in order to participate as fully as possible in on-campus classroom and extracurricular gatherings, as possible. Students who cannot take courses with in-person sessions this fall because of health concerns can choose to enroll in other, fully online classes. When needed, the Registrar’s Office will work individually with students to make course enrollment changes and related updates to plans for remaining coursework. Rest assured, we will work with students to navigate course completion options in the event of illness – whether related or not to COVID.

In an early August update to the community we’ll share more about the specifics of opportunities for student gatherings (with and without faculty and staff), fall semester library access, and any other needed updates about the fall. Between now and then, we’ll keep everyone posted about the status, timing, and details of campus opening.

We’re aware that the hardships and the unknowns of this disruptive season of our life together present many challenges. My thanks to each of you – students, faculty, and staff – for your continued flexibility and understanding as we make adaptations to our work as a community.

David Esterline, President

July 6, 2020

Dear PTS community,

A PTS campus resident living in Fulton has tested positive for COVID-19. The person is recovering in isolation, and we are providing them support during their recovery. The person has everything they need in their apartment at this time. Out of respect for the privacy of the resident and in compliance with privacy laws, the Seminary cannot disclose the identity of the resident. Anyone known to be in close contact with the person is in quarantine and monitoring symptoms for 14 days per public health guidance.

The person was tested July 2 and the Seminary received the results July 4. We have been in direct contact with the person. Based on the information gathered, the risk of transmission for the general Seminary community from this case is considered to be low. The person has been isolated since July 2. According to the medical advice they received, the person is to remain in isolation for 72 hours from the date they become symptom free. Also on July 4, our maintenance crew did a thorough cleaning and sanitized all common spaces, door handles, railings, light switches, washers, and dryers in all towers of Fulton.

Community transmission of the COVID-19 virus continues to increase locally, in our region, and in the United States. The vast majority of people who get infected (80 percent or so) have mild cases. As has been our practice over these last few months, our maintenance crew will continue to disinfect common areas of campus in accordance with public health recommendations, including the extra cleaning of Fulton.

According to public health authorities, how a community responds to an outbreak can have a direct impact on its duration and severity. By working together—and heeding the wealth of public health expertise that is available to us—we can take significant steps to slow the spread of the virus.

MINIMIZING DISEASE SPREAD

Preventing the spread of disease is everyone’s job. You can help by doing the following:

• Wash your hands frequently – especially after touching doorknobs – and follow proper hand-washing procedures:
  • Use warm water and soap, wash hands for 20 seconds.
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60-95 percent alcohol.
• If you feel ill, stay in your unit and let us know you are feeling sick by e-mailing Tom Hinds at Click to view e-mail.
  • Separate yourself from other residents and pets.
  • If you need to leave your unit to go to a doctor, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth and disposable gloves. Discard these items upon return and/or wash immediately.
  • Any co-residents should use a facemask and gloves when in the same room as you.
  • Do not use public transportation, ride sharing, or taxis.
  • Do not enter any public areas in the building.
  • Before leaving to go to the doctor, call ahead to let them know if you may have been exposed to a virus.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard immediately in a lined trashcan and wash your hands immediately afterwards following the steps noted above.
• Do not share personal items (dishes, utensil, cups, bedding, towels, etc.).
• Clean all high-touch surfaces every day.
• Some people infected with COVID-19 do not have symptoms and may still be able to transmit the disease to others without knowing that they have it. This is why physical distancing is so important.

KEEPING THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN

• We are monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and Pennsylvania and Allegheny County health departments for updates.
• We will continue to be proactive and transparent in our communication to avoid misinformation and ensure you know what to expect.

Please join me in praying for healing for this person and for health and peace for our entire community in this anxious time.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Fall Academic Plans

We are putting the final touches on the specifics of the fall academic plan. By next week we will share in detail the delivery mode for each course offered this fall. Building on our experience this spring, faculty are continuing to think carefully about hybrid and online instruction. This work is supported by the pedagogical and technological skills of specialized PTS staff members and in ongoing conversations among faculty. The Seminary’s Church Planting and Revitalization and Doctor of Ministry students will meet online this fall. We’re already looking forward to fall classes!

Wearing PTS ID Badges on Campus

Effective immediately, those who are on campus must wear their PTS ID badge/One Card so that it is visible. In the Seminary’s phased reopening, we anticipate all exterior doors will be locked 24/7 (accessible by key card) and visitors will be routed through the front entrance of Long Hall to the Reception Office to answer health screening questions. Wearing your badge will help us monitor visitor flow and occupancy density in the buildings. Lanyards will be made available for those who need them.

Prospective Student Tours

So long as Allegheny County remains in the Green Phase, the Seminary will welcome prospective students to campus during scheduled blocks of time. Visiting campus is an important experience for students considering PTS. These visits will be done with health and safety in mind—face coverings, social distancing, boxed meals, health screenings, etc. The Coronavirus Response Team reviewed the new policy and is confident of our staff’s ability to conduct these visits while following CDC and health department guidelines. Faculty and program directors will continue to meet with prospective students via Zoom. We plan to resume campus visits once the Seminary begins our phased reopening.

PTS Health and Safety Plan

As previously communicated, the Seminary is required to make public our health and safety plan before reopening. The Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet each week to complete this work. This week we reviewed Campus Safety – Physical and Operations and Human Resources and Work Policies. We expect to announce a Seminary travel policy (as well as the full plan) in the weeks ahead.

Additional Funds Available for Student Support

The Seminary is making available additional funds for master’s-degree students who may be experiencing financial hardships due to COVID-19. We are completing the application process and will communicate with students when these funds will be available.

Continued prayers for the health and wellbeing of you and your family,

David Esterline, President

Friends and Colleagues,

Today’s reflection comes from Diane Poznick, business office specialist. Like so many of us, she has been spending the last days, weeks, and months working from her home office. For Diane—and Whiskers—that means noticing the transformation of nature outside her window.

With thanksgiving to God who makes everything beautiful in its time,

David Esterline, President

_____

Outside My Window

On the first day I worked from home, I e-mailed this picture to Ellen, Kendra, and Tom and told them they had been replaced as my co-workers by Whiskers our family cat. What I didn't realize was just how long I would be sitting here at this desk with Whiskers. I didn't anticipate that the days, would turn into weeks and now into months. I also didn't know God had a special plan to mark the passage of time for me. You see there's a Japanese Red Maple just outside the window where Whiskers is pictured. On Tues., March 17, the brown branches of the tree were bare. I also didn’t realize God gave me a front row seat to watch the magic of spring. With wander and awe I began to notice everyday as little tiny buds of growth began to sprout from its branches. Then they began to form a tiny curved shape. Soon after those little curves turned red. I remember one particular Chapel service when I was mourning the loss of my brother-in-law's mother to COVID. I was very upset and raised my hands upward to reach for God, and as I looked up to the beautiful blue sky I could see one singular little tiny curve had unfolded on top to form a leaf. As I did this, I felt God telling me Janet is okay, and I too would be okay. 

You know I have watched out this window now for many days, and God has marked time for me with the lovely transformation of this red maple outside my window. I have spent other springs noticing the growth and transformation of nature. At the Seminary in fact, I used to love to walk in the morning from the back parking lot and through the courtyard outside the library over to Long Hall, watching those trees bloom in praise of a new season. But never have I had a front row seat to watch so closely on a day-to-day basis the transformation of nature as it too reaches for God for growth and transformation. I am grateful for this time to be abundantly close with my family and close with God, to be able to continue to contribute daily to the work of our seminary, and to be blessed with your constant presence in the steadfast company of my cat, Whiskers, and the bold color of this red maple. 

I offer deepest thanks to you, O Lord for giving me this chance to slow down and see the wonder of your work. Help all of us to know You are working slowly and constantly on a transformation within each one of us.  

Diane

PTS Community,

State Guidelines for Institutions of Higher Ed

As we noted last week, the Pennsylvania Department of Education guidelines are now available. All higher ed institutions must have a Health and Safety Plan in place before reopening. The Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team is working to complete this plan. Key sections include:

• A strategy on how the institution will coordinate with local public health officials, or the equivalent of;
• A strategy to monitor health conditions on its campus community;
• A strategy to mitigate and contain the spread of the virus on campus, and to inform the DOH in the event that transmission occurs at the institution;
• A strategy to safely resume in-person instruction; and
• A strategy to communicate accurate and timely information to students, faculty, staff, and the communities it serves.

Details of the Seminary’s plan will be shared in the weeks ahead. Again, if you have questions or concerns about how the State guidelines will affect your work, please contact Jim Downey. You can read the full guidelines online: https://www.education.pa.gov/Schools/safeschools/emergencyplanning/COVID-19/SchoolReopeningGuidance/HigherEd/Pages/default.aspx

Contact Tracing

As noted in the guidelines above, a school must have a “strategy to monitor health conditions on its campus community.” Part of this work will be in cooperation with the Allegheny Department of Health to do contact tracing in the event of a case on campus. For this reason, the Seminary is evaluating a number of apps that will allow this work to be completed more easily. We are currently reviewing a locally developed, free, and secure app and will look at other popular options.

Campus Phased Reopening

Most faculty and staff should plan to continue working from home through the end of summer. State Department of Ed guidelines encourage telework until campuses can reopen fully and safely.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

I don’t have to tell you that the world is hurting right now. You see it. You feel it. We are mourning the loss of old routines and changed expectations. We are mourning lives lost to COVID-19. We are mourning how the pandemic has affected the nation’s economy. We are mourning our country’s long history of racism. In recent days, one of alums has been asking her Facebook friends, “What is the work of love today?” What will be your work? 

Below Senior Director of Enrollment Services Tracy Riggle Young reflects on how her daily family walks are providing her with both a sacred ritual and an opportunity to teach her children about the work of love.

With hope in God’s unfailing love,

David

_____

During the last three months, as I’ve struggled to find balance among commitments to work, home-schooling a kindergartener and looking after an 18-month-old with seemingly endless energy and curiosity, I’ve found that sacred spaces and rituals have become important points of grounding. In my family, one such sacred ritual has become our daily walks to see, as my Will calls them, the “car-cars” and “big buses.” At the end of our otherwise quiet street, lies a bustling intersection of sorts, which has become my son and daughter’s eyes to the outside world. Each day we dutifully don the weather-appropriate gear and head to our special bench to sit and observe the world around us. The hums of car engines and roaring sounds of buses have become the ritualistic sounds I’ve come to associate with our time in quarantine. 

I’ve asked myself on many occasions what it is about this daily practice that has made it feel so special – so sacred. This ritual for myself and my children has become our time to sit and talk without interruption while feeling momentarily connected to our neighbors, or those who may simply be passing through, in a season of social distancing. Our waves, smiles, and an occasional honk function as small, but important, reminders of our connectedness in a season of disruption and fragmentation. 

Our sacred bench has also provided space for me to speak candidly with my children about the current state of the world. Charlotte, in her precocious quest for understanding, rarely holds back from asking questions and as of late many have revolved around the topic of death. Why are so many people dying from Covid-19? What about grandma – she’s older – will she die if she gets it? And most recently, why are the police killing people with black skin? As I recount my daughter’s questions, I do so with a good amount of shame for not creating enough space to candidly discuss these issues with my children sooner. As a mother and Christian I am called to do better on behalf of my children – and on behalf of all of God’s children who deserve better. 

Through this challenging season that we all find ourselves in, I pray that each of us be able to find those sacred rituals within our own lives – those spaces that draw us closer to God and set us on a path toward more fully realizing God’s love and justice. These spaces have challenged me to humble myself enough to be fully present to my children’s difficult questions. They’ve enabled me to quiet myself long enough to come before God in prayer and repentance. These sacred rituals have invited me to turn inward and face my own complacency with the evil that surrounds us. They further remind me of my dependence on a God who will sustain me, yet calls me to do better.

Tracy

June 10, 2020

PTS Community,

State Guidelines for Institutions of Higher Ed

The Pennsylvania Department of Education has released the State’s guidelines for higher ed institutions to resume in-person instruction while putting measures in place to protect their campus communities. The Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team is currently working to review the requirements and prepare for the Seminary’s phased re-opening.

Postsecondary education institutions choosing to resume any of the in-person operations permitted during the various phases of PA's reopening plan are required to create their own Health and Safety Plan and make that plan available to the public before proceeding to resume in-person instruction, operations, services, and activities. The plan should address the following set of strategies:

• A strategy on how the institution will coordinate with local public health officials, or the equivalent of;
• A strategy to safely resume in-person instruction;
• A strategy to monitor health conditions on its campus community;
• A strategy to mitigate and contain the spread of the virus on campus, and to inform the Department of Health in the event that transmission occurs at the institution; and
• A strategy to communicate accurate and timely information to students, faculty, staff, and the communities it serves.

Additionally, the institution's plan should further address the following public health and safety measures:

• Reinforce practices related to hygiene, sanitation, and face coverings on campus;
• Implement social distancing interventions and make the necessary modifications to facilities that may create an environment conducive to healthy, safe, and inclusive learning;
• Review and adjust attendance requirements, absentee policies, and non-essential travel for students, individuals at high risk of COVID-19, and personnel; and
• Modify course modalities, schedules, and academic calendars to adapt to changing transmission levels and community spread of the virus.

You can read the full guidelines online: https://www.education.pa.gov/Schools/safeschools/emergencyplanning/COVID-19/SchoolReopeningGuidance/HigherEd/Pages/default.aspx

Once you have reviewed the State’s guidelines, please let us know if you have any concerns about how these guidelines may affect your work. E-mail your questions or concerns to Jim Downey.

Library Reopening

Connected to the Seminary’s overall campus reopening plans, Library leadership is currently refining a phased plan for offering Library services to the PTS community and beyond. We anticipate making the collection available first to faculty and students taking summer classes, then the full PTS community, and eventually to our other patrons. These plans will be in accordance with the Seminary’s reopening and health guidelines.

Summer Semester Has Begun

The Summer Semester has begun without any major issues. Students are enrolled in online Greek, Hebrew, Church Planting and Revitalization, and Doctor of Ministry courses. This year’s summer languages include seven non-degree students, people seeking to complete a course or two for personal enrichment, transferrable credit, or as an on-ramp to a future degree program.

Student Employment Payments Continue through June

Recognizing that some students were anticipating summer employment at the Seminary, continuing students, who were paid during the Spring Semester, will continue to be paid through June. The Seminary is aware that some students and their families are experiencing economic hardships due to the pandemic. If you are interested in employment during June, there are two facilities jobs open. These positions require physical labor and will work outside most of the time. Contact Tom Fulton for more information.

Summer Maintenance Work Increases on Campus

The maintenance crew is back on campus and busily preparing for our phased reopening. They’re working to polish the floors, clean out units for Action housing, cut the grass, and many other tasks that keep them extra busy during the summer months.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation as we navigate these complex times,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Thanks for your patience this week as we continue to make adjustments due to the pandemic. As has been the case since late February 2020, we are making decisions with two main goals in mind: keep our community safe and allow our students to complete their coursework on time.

N95 Masks

As we noted earlier this week, research shows that N95, KN95, and surgical masks are most effective against the coronavirus, particularly the new variant. Please consider upgrading your mask if you haven’t done so already.

Reported Case Count

The Seminary had 1 reported case of COVID-19 for the week of Dec. 29-Jan. 4.

Asa Lee, President

June 5, 2020

Dear PTS Community,

The temptation can be great in a time like this to react out of a sense of our own strength - to fix our culturally-embedded racism or to cure a global pandemic. I am grateful for colleagues like the Rev. Ayana Teter, director of vocational discernment and placement, who invites us in this week’s message to find healing in the one whose yoke is easy and burden is light, even and especially when we feel vulnerable.

God’s peace to you,

David Esterline, President

_____

Late one evening I was laying on my bed crying out to the Lord. Full disclosure—I could not sleep. And because sleep almost always comes to me swift and sweet and gentle, I was troubled that sleep had not yet come on this particular night. In my heart I cried, “Lord, what does this all mean?” Now, my most immediate thoughts were of my mild insomnia . . . and how swift and upending and devastating the last three months of our lives have been. 

Out of that silence, I sensed the Lord’s invitation to reflect on the following question, “What do you desire from your children when they are ill? And almost immediately I was flooded with images of my children—my youngest son sick with a winter cold, my eldest daughter with the stomach flu, my middle child battling a fever just days before the world shutdown. As I remembered the most recent time when each of them had looked up piteously from their sick bed, a clear answer came to my mind—I want them to rest and to fight! When my children are ill, I want them to rest—to suspend activity, stop their normal routine, and allow all of their bodily energy to go toward recovery. And I want them to fight, that is to participate with me in the healing process. Often my children’s participation involves taking a dose of medicine that is “yucky,” eating a small bowl of soup even when they are “not hungry,” or drinking a warm cup of tea even when they “feel hot.” In other words, it is an invitation to engage in what I know will heal, nourish, and strengthen their bodies.  

As I lay there with my memories of motherhood a new realization dawned upon me—a deep feeling of parental solidarity with the Lord. It was as if the Lord spoke an answer to my original cry declaring that His children, too, are ill. And that we are—I was—invited to rest and to participate in God’s healing work. Since that extraordinary evening, I have found myself repeatedly questioning, “Where do we need healing?” and “How can I participate in the Lord’s healing work?” As I read the news each morning and evening I discover many different answers to the former question—our national sickness is on display for the world to see. The answer of how to participate in the healing is more challenging and requires of me vulnerability, humility, and risk. Yet I have not stopped asking these two questions—willing to submit to the light of God’s love for inspection. And while I try to participate in what seems like a complete transfusion, with God’s love and justice still permeating our culture of death, I am thankful that as part of the transformation, there is an invitation to rest.

Ayana

PTS Community,

Campus Reopening

This Fri., June 5, Allegheny County moves to the Green Phase of the state’s reopening plan. This green status will not immediately affect campus operations. Even in the Green Phase, those employees and organizations who can work remotely are asked to do so. Therefore, PTS faculty and staff will continue teleworking through at least July 1. There may be some exceptions (additional maintenance crew to polish floors while buildings are at low density, members of the Business Office to prepare for the audit, etc.). The Seminary’s campus access policy remains in effect at this time. Tom Fulton will monitor requests with building density in mind.

Fall Semester Plan

Institutional planning during a time of significant uncertainty is challenging. Given the relative newness of the coronavirus, the future is impossible to predict. Constituents (i.e., faculty, students, staff, Board members) all want the best for the Seminary and at the same time vary in their vantage points on the institution and in individual propensities for risk. In times of uncertainty, some desire certainty, others seek flexibility. Neither solutions that maximize certainty nor options that maximize flexibility tend well to the complexity of the current moment. The former risks rigidity that fails to meet the specific needs of the situation that may emerge; the latter risks not leaving sufficient time for preparation (and requires preparation for multiple possibilities).

We are a school that values in-person teaching and learning, but fall conditions may prevent us from gathering in all of our usual ways. In our curricular (and related institutional) planning, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary has advantages and disadvantages over a residential, undergraduate population. We have a smaller population of students, faculty, and staff to consider and can offer more tailored solutions and one-on-one attention to student progress through credit bearing programs. In addition, we do not have to negotiate safety in dormitory style housing and can house students on campus with confidence in protecting their wellbeing. We do, however, have an adult student population with active lives beyond campus. Many live with and care for families and most maintain outside employment. This means we cannot isolate students on campus nor limit contact with the outside world.

There are many things we do not yet know about the fall, including:

• Whether Allegheny County (and the other counties in which our students, faculty, and staff live) will be declared by the State of Pennsylvania to be Green, Yellow, and/or Red at various times.
• Exactly how Green, Yellow, and Red designations will shape campus life.
• Other public health restrictions that may or may not be in place (e.g., the need to mask, limit group sizes, curtail the density of people on campus).
• The availability, feasibility of implementing, and the efficacy of testing the campus population as a means of pursuing and ensuring safety.

It does seem likely, however, that:

• Social distancing and cloth face coverings will be required on campus, at least in spaces shared by more than one individual.
• The number of COVID-19 cases will peak again in some way in the fall and/or winter.
• Some already-publicly-announced higher education plans may need to change.
• Increased human contact will increase the transmission of the virus.

Despite complexity and uncertainty, we are able to move forward in planning for the fall semester by focusing on our two primary institutional priorities: 1) the health and wellbeing of our community and 2) the formation of students for ministry and service in God’s world. The latter, of course, has been central to the Seminary’s mission and work for generations, amidst a great variety of conditions. Faculty and staff remain deeply committed to undertaking this work with excellence; students choose PTS because of our longstanding dedication to this formation and education.

In order to strike a balance between flexibility and predictability while fulfilling our core commitment to students, we are planning for two fall scenarios.

Scenario 1 – A hybrid experience with in-person instruction when feasible – We value in-person instruction and will plan to offer it as much as possible and to replicate its aims and benefits when not feasible. Aware, however, that it is likely that conditions in the fall will necessitate some period(s) of remote instruction, all classes will be planned with online elements. This scenario allows us to transition to remote instruction more quickly when required and will reduce the density of people on campus by staggering in-person class meetings throughout the week. In-person sessions will be offered in classrooms and other campus venues that accommodate required physical distancing. In this scenario, some classes may be held fully online when instructional and pedagogical considerations make an online experience preferential to a socially distanced on-campus experience.

Scenario 2 – A fully online experience – Should conditions in August 2020 and throughout the fall prevent coursework from being able to be completed in-person, instruction will be offered fully remotely, as it was during the Spring 2020 semester.

(In the unanticipated event that public health guidelines present no restrictions to campus life and the safety of faculty, students, and staff can be assured, instruction can revert to an in-person format.)

In either scenario outlined above, PTS will offer all the coursework needed for students to continue to complete their degree and certificate programs. The already-published course schedule lists these classes and their meeting times, whether in-person or remote. Each class at PTS has been, and will be, executed according to documented course learning outcomes that support attainment of degrees and certificates. Remote instruction will be offered in a variety of synchronous and asynchronous formats that best meet course objectives and the desire for student formation and learning.

Given these two named scenarios, students are invited and encouraged to move (move back) to campus in August in order to participate as fully as possible in on-campus classroom and extracurricular (e.g., worship, opportunities for fellowship, student organizations) gatherings, as possible. Students who cannot take courses with in-person sessions at this time can choose to enroll in other, fully online classes. We will work individually with every student to make course enrollment changes and related updates to plans for remaining coursework. As we do each semester, we will work with students who become ill during the fall to navigate course completion options. We’ll share the planned format of each course in early July and announce the plans for the first weeks of classes in early August.

This summer, building on our experiences this spring, faculty will continue to hone their skills for hybrid and online instruction. This work will be supported by the pedagogical and technological skills of specialized PTS staff members and in ongoing conversations among faculty. In addition, campus facilities staff are assessing spaces and preparing campus for accommodating social distancing needs.

Christ has called, equipped, and sustained us as a community that is able to navigate unknown territory confident of God’s steadfast love and the accompaniment of one another. The dedication, perseverance, and grace of Seminary students, staff, and faculty made this spring’s transitions online both possible and smooth. Our shared focus on learning and the formation of students for ministry anchored our efforts amid changes this spring and will continue to do so, regardless of what the fall holds.

For further reading:

• CDC Considerations for Institutes of Higher Education

We look forward to the ways we’ll gather, learn, lament, rejoice, struggle, and celebrate together as a community in the year ahead.

David Esterline, President

May 29, 2020

Happy graduation day!

In today’s video message, the Rev. Derek Davenport, a two time PTS grad and grad of and director of the Miller Summer Youth Institute, reminds us that even though we don’t have the power to bring our communities out of our current global crisis, we can bring hope into it. Class of 2020, you didn’t expect to graduate in the middle of a major global crisis. And as recorded in Genesis, Joseph didn’t expect to serve the Egyptian government in the middle of a long-term famine. Yet, we can have hope in these situations. 

Today and every day our hope comes from God.

David Esterline, President

May 27, 2020

Dear PTS Community,

Campus Reopening

In the coming weeks, Allegheny County will likely move to the Green Phase of the state’s reopening plan. This green status will not immediately affect campus operations. Even in the Green Phase, those employees and organizations who can work remotely are asked to do so. Therefore, PTS faculty and staff will continue teleworking through at least July 1. There may be some exceptions (additional maintenance crew to polish floors while buildings are at low density, members of the Business Office to prepare for the audit, etc.). The Seminary’s campus access policy remains in effect at this time. Tom Fulton will monitor requests with building density in mind.

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to consider the necessary steps to reopen campus. CDC guidelines are now available for institutions of higher education and we anticipate the state guidelines in the coming weeks. You can read the CDC guidelines online: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/colleges-universities/considerations.html.

Fall Semester Plans

The Seminary values being an in-person teaching and learning community. As soon as we can safely do so, we will return to in-person teaching and learning. We are however, planning for the likely possibility of continued adaptation of delivery modes in the fall and remain committed to offering quality education regardless of format. Further details about the fall semester will be shared next week, with a more detailed plan available the first week of July. In the beginning of August, we’ll consider the situation at that time and health guidelines to determine if changes to the plan are needed. As scheduled, classes will begin Aug. 31.

Metz Food Service Remains Closed through Fall Semester

Metz food service will remain closed throughout the Fall Semester. The Coronavirus Response Team will revisit this decision in the fall in anticipation of J-Term and the Spring Semester.

Overnight Guest Housing Remains Closed through Fall Semester

For the health and wellbeing of our students and residents, overnight guest housing in Calian Hall will remain closed through at least the Fall Semester. The Coronavirus Response Team will revisit this decision in the fall in anticipation of J-Term and the Spring Semester. In the event that we need overnight housing for certificate and degree students, we’ll book local hotels.

Budget

As previously reported PTS is facing a $1 million shortfall in next year’s budget. At this time, please keep your spending to essential items only. What can you defer right now? Talk with your VP before spending from this year’s budget and planning for FY 20-21. Deferred spending will help us prepare for next year. The Seminary’s Board is working to balance next year’s budget.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we continue in this time of uncertainty,

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

In this week’s Friday reflection, Jim Downey, VP for strategic planning and institutional effectiveness and retired U.S. Air Force Reserve colonel, reminds us that there are many ways to stay connected to the family of God, even in difficult circumstances. For POWs, that method was the tap code. For many of us today, it’s virtual church services. Regardless of how we “gather,” Matthew 18:20 reminds us, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”

I pray that this long weekend is restorative for each of you,

David Esterline, President

_____

For many weeks now most of us have had to worship using Zoom, Facebook, or some other virtual platform. At first, it probably seemed odd, uncomfortable, and definitely not “normal.” However, as the weeks have gone by, God’s gifts of creativity and adaptation have found their way into beautiful expressions of faithfulness, worship, and community. Fred Rogers ’62 used to talk about the Spirit moving through the camera to his audience. We are experiencing our own version of that today with Zoom. And adapting to a challenging context is not new for followers of Jesus.

During the Vietnam War, American POWs devised various ways to communicate with each other even in complete isolation and under the ever-watchful eye of their captors. One of the ways they did that was with the tap code. Not really used since World War II, the tap code was a method of tapping out the letters of the alphabet in a pattern, often using water pipes which would efficiently carry the sound. When new prisoners arrived, the tap code was quickly shared and learned. During my Air Force career, I had the opportunity to attend a POW symposium with Vietnam veterans. One of the speakers shared how he began fully to grasp the tap code on a Sunday morning when he realized a worship service was being conducted. In an article about Sen. John McCain, a POW had this to say about his experience:

In Vietnam, McCain’s fellow prisoners say their faith was a matter of life and death. “We knew we had to have some belief greater than ourselves,” said Orson Swindle, a Marine captain who spent six years in captivity. The prisoners had developed a tap code system for communicating through the walls. Through that tapping, “we decided we needed to be all on the same sheet of music at least one time during the week,” Swindle said.

Sen. John McCain spent seven years as a POW and was informally known as the chaplain to cellmates.

We are isolated but have found connection and community via Zoom church. Our brothers and sisters in the Armed Forces have been, at times, isolated and found connection and community via the tap code.  In challenging times, the Holy Spirit can move in powerful ways that reminds us of our reliance on each other.

On Monday, we will celebrate Memorial Day, a time to honor the ultimate sacrifice of the women and men who have served our country in the Armed Forces. I would encourage you to take a little time to do that. It is common to say “thank you for your service” when you come across someone who is serving or who has served. You will find that most will respond with a humble “you’re welcome” often even with a little embarrassment for the attention. Like our healthcare workers, first responders, and frontline essential employees today, we should be thankful for the sacrifice that many have made on our behalf. And we should be thankful for Zoom church and the tap code for providing ways to continue to be the family of God.

James R. Downey, Colonel, USAF Reserve, Retired

May 20, 2020

Dear PTS Community,

Fall Semester Plans

As you’ve previously read, the Seminary’s joint first principles during this time are a) keeping our promises to our degree students, which is to say we will offer all the courses necessary and in sequence such that all students will be able to graduate on time and go into / continue in the ministries to which they are called and for which they are being prepared, and b) we will keep the campus and community safe by adhering to all public health and safety guidelines to minimize the spread of the virus. Secondly, the Seminary values being an in-person teaching and learning community. As soon as we can safely do so, we will return to in-person teaching and learning. We are however, planning the likely possibility of continued adaptation of delivery modes in the fall. Further details about the fall semester will be shared by June 1, with a more detailed plan available July 1. On Aug. 1 we’ll consider the situation at that time and health guidelines to determine if changes to the plan are needed. As scheduled, classes will begin Aug. 31.

On-campus housing is open and will remain open regardless of the virus being present in the city. We understand that campus is home for many students.

Campus Reopening

At this time, there are no updates to report regarding when the campus might reopen. Please note, however, that when the time comes, our community life will look different from when we were last together in March. Going forward, we’ll likely have one entrance and one exit for each building, masks will be required for all persons on campus, shields will be added in public locations (such as the reception desk, Business Office, and library), we’ll monitor the density of people per room and building, and social distancing will be necessary in classrooms and other locations (envision roped off desks/tables and markers on the floor indicating six feet distances).

Requesting Non-Degree IT Support—Reminder

Between June 15 and Aug, 15, we anticipate the IT staff will have capacity to support some non-credit bearing programming at PTS. We ask that initial requests for support be submitted to Dave Middleton, Heather Vacek, and Charles Fischer by Fri., May 22. Requests should include event name, nature and scope of IT support needed, names of staff involved, and size of expected constituency. These initial requests will be reviewed and a collective response to submissions will be provided by Fri., May 29. Later requests should include the same information and will be considered on a first come, first served basis. The ability of the IT team to support non-credit bearing programs beyond Aug. 15 remains unknown, but we will communicate additional information as soon as more is known about the format of fall instruction.

With prayers and appreciation for each of you,

David Esterline, President

Friends and Colleagues,

As you likely know, “Mister” Fred Rogers is one of Pittsburgh Seminary’s most notable alums. He graduated from PTS in 1962 and from 1968 to 2001 hosted the children’s television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. In a 2014 news article, two reporters were remembering Mister Rogers’ life and legacy. They recorded the following conversation:

Reporter 1: What do you think about when you think of Mr. Rogers?

Reporter 2: Well, he was the first example of what life could be like.

Reporter 1: He was a part of a community.

Reporter 2: I remember watching him going to visit the sewage plant or the place where they make light bulbs, and you would learn about it but you would also meet the people who were working there. So you got to know the people, you got to know your community. You got the sense that your community mattered because he really saw people, as they were. I wish I knew people like Mr. Rogers. Or that there were more Mr. Rogers in the world. Or that we were more open to being like him.

In today’s reflection, Karen Rohrer, director of the Church Planting Initiative, considers her own community and how slowing down these last few months has brought her into closer relationship with her neighbors. Today as we enter into the Yellow Phase in Allegheny County and perhaps the pace of life picks up a bit, I encourage you to take time to see the people around us and pray for our communities.

David Esterline, President

_____

I’m a big believer in the importance of place and in neighborhoods. A significant part of our Church Planting Initiative curriculum is learning from and being rooted in the place where you find yourself. Now that I don’t get up and get in the car and drive to work, my world has felt smaller. Our neighbors across the street have a little boy who got masks in his Easter basket, and we chat with them from the other side of the road when they are outside. Ms. Linda on the corner has been out working on her yard for days, and we linger at her fence to check in more than we used to, when we only walked the dog at 7:30 a.m., 6:15 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. daily. Up the hill are the Pellings and the Shopes and the Collins—and we walk up there or run by there and greet them whenever we are out—because some configuration of those families is always outside. If we’re going to the store, we always text the neighbors next door—do they need anything? And they do the same for us.

As hard and awful as this season is (and it is both), I feel like being stuck in place has made new space for me to understand the community that I am in now. I’m finding again the tendency to read the neighborhood newspaper or ask questions about the history of the street and the block. In this deeply lonely season, I am so much more likely to text a question I could Google, greet a neighbor I could just walk by, or chat up the mail carrier across the porch. It has me wondering, when did my life get so sped up that I stopped seeing the people around me? Even as everything is awful now, would I really want to go back to the way it was before?

There is a lot I want to repent of these days, but one of the things is how much I have let myself miss seeing the community God has graced me with—in my neighborhood and at the Seminary. There is plenty to fear and mourn, and plenty to be angry about in the world right now. But also, you all are miracles and gifts, and I am glad to work with you. My neighborhood is full of the most lovely people and I am so glad to share these (sometimes) sunshiny days with them. And for the intermittent grief and rage and fear and angst that bubble up? May God be present with us and in us and remind us that these are human things and God was human too.

Best,

Karen

Dear PTS Community,

Campus Remains Closed

Although Allegheny County will move to the Yellow Phase this Friday and some businesses may open (or open with fuller services), colleges and university campus must remain largely closed until the county is in the Green Phase. While in the Yellow Phase, businesses that can continue teleworking must do so. As we’ve noted in previous communications, the Coronavirus Response Team is thinking through a long list of steps to ensure community health and safety once we reopen. Some changes to campus and community life will almost certainly persist even after a move to the Green Phase.

Accessing Campus

Please note that employees who wish to access campus during the weeks ahead can do so by contacting Tom Fulton directly. Building entrance doors will remain locked during this time and campus access continues to be for pickup/drop off of supplies needed to work from home. The updated policy for accessing campus is as follows:

• Faculty or staff should e-mail Tom Fulton (Click to view e-mail) requesting access to office. Access is limited to once per week. Tom will ensure that a safe and limited number of people are accessing campus at any one time.
  • The subject line of the e-mail should be REQUEST FOR ACCESS.
  • Employees should CC his/her VP.
  • Include expected arrival time.
  • Include estimated departure time.
• Available access hours will be 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and access will be limited to employees only.
• Faculty or staff will contact Campus Security when they arrive on campus.
• Campus Security will meet faculty or staff and open door for access.
• If access has not been pre-approved, the following emergency procedure will be allowed once:
  • Faculty or staff to send text messages to respective VP and Tom Fulton at 412-398-2018.
  • Tom will call Campus Security’s cell phone to authorize access.
  • On second or later attempts, faculty or staff will be denied access.
• Campus Security will check office 15-30 minutes after estimated departure time and ask faculty or staff to leave if he/she is still there.

Requesting Non-Degree IT Support

Between June 15 and Aug, 15, we anticipate the IT staff will have capacity to support some non-credit bearing programming at PTS. We ask that initial requests for support be submitted to Dave Middleton, Heather Vacek, and Charles Fischer by Fri., May 22. Requests should include event name, nature and scope of IT support needed, names of staff involved, and size of expected constituency. These initial requests will be reviewed and a collective response to submissions provided by Fri., May 29. Later requests should include the same information and will be considered on a first come, first served basis. The ability of the IT team to support non-credit bearing programs beyond Aug. 15 remains unknown, but we will communicate additional information as soon as more is known about the format of fall instruction.

It seems the weather is becoming more Spring-like in Pittsburgh! I trust you will be able to take the time to enjoy it--while keeping proper social distance, of course. Peace to you all in these days.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

Psalm 33 tells of the greatness and goodness of God. The Psalm begins, “Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous. Praise befits the upright. Praise the Lord with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings. Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord.” Even in times like these—uncertain, anxious, draining, fearful—we are reminded of God’s goodness. For Dean John Welch, music is one way to experience this goodness and get through these days. As John writes below, may we each find the song that carries us through.

Praying that you will see God’s goodness in these days,

David Esterline, President

_____

There is something about music. There is something special and unique about music and how the human mind reacts to it. There is something about music and how humanity connects with the Divine. I had once heard that playing classical music during pregnancy enhances the intellectual capacity of a fetus, but there is insufficient scientific evidence to support that claim. However, there is evidence that music benefits preterm babies during painful procedures and full-term babies during operations.

We also know that there are others who benefit from the sound of music. I recently saw a video in which a woman performed validation therapy on an Alzheimer patient. The patient was non-communicative. She would not speak. The therapist began connecting with the woman by singing to her and rubbing her face. She sang, “Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so . . .” After a little while, the patient began tapping on the arm of the chair in rhythm as the therapist continued singing. While the patient could not sing, she slowly began moving her lips and mouthing the words of the song. An Alzheimer patient!

There is something special about music, and the Bible has always shown that to us. David played music for Saul and it calmed him (1 Sam. 16:23). Elisha asked for a musician, and the power of God came upon him (2 Kings 3:15). Music has been my outlet for years and especially during this pandemic. As I shelter in place in my home and when there is a break in my evening, I will either listen to music on my headphones as I walk the dog, play a known melody on my keyboard, or resume writing songs—something I have not done in 14 years but now have found the urge to do. There is something about music and I hope you can find a song that will carry you through these days as well.

John Welch

Dear PTS Community,

As we adjust to our new rhythm and consider the many ways our life together as a community will look different in the next months, please know that the Seminary is committed to offering the necessary courses to ensure timely completion of academic programs, operating as safely as possible to maintain the health of our community, and resuming face-to-face instruction and formation of students as soon as it is safe to do so.

Apartment Sale

The Seminary and ACTION-Housing are on schedule to close on the sale of Anderson, Highlander, and McMillan apartments mid-June. Action’s construction contractor will start renovations in McMillan shortly thereafter.

Campus Preparation

In preparation for our eventual return to campus, our facilities crew is preparing the campus with sneeze guards in spaces where we most often interact with the public, ensuring adequate supplies of disinfectants, and making gloves and masks available. Additionally, they are considering occupancy limits per room and the reconfiguration of spaces (desks, tables, chairs, etc.).

Note that there is currently no reliable way to predict when that return to campus might be. It could be as late as mid-summer.

Celebrating the Class of 2020

The Pastoral Care Team is planning a day to celebrate our graduates through Zoom that will incorporate a period where we will worship together. Details are forthcoming.

Early Dismissal May 22

As a way to say thanks for your good work during these last months, we are giving you off the afternoon of Fri., May 22. We encourage employees to work only until noon that day and to begin the holiday weekend early. Stay safe!

Fall Semester Plans

The faculty are meeting regularly to discuss plans for the next academic year. As decisions are made, we will keep you posted. We are considering course delivery methods, social distancing measures, field education placements, intercultural trips, and other academic matters. At this point, we are focused on detailed planning that allows for flexibility as situations change. Students should meet with their advisors and register for summer and fall classes. We will share decisions making about the fall as soon as possible.

Funds Available for Students

As a reminder, we invite students in all certificate and degree programs who have experienced financial hardship resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic to apply for grants made available through the CARES Act and the Seminary’s Student Sustainer Fund. Applications are due Fri., May 8. Students should check their PTS e-mail for more information. The application is available on My.PTS.

Future Planning

The Coronavirus Response Team continues to meet weekly to discuss a long list of questions regarding our phased reopening. As we’ve previously communicated, our ability to reopen for face-to-face instruction will be based on guidance from government and healthcare officials. At this point, we do not have a clear timeline for when schools like ours might reopen. If you haven’t already done so, you can read more about Governor Wolf’s reopening plans for the state. Allegheny County remains in the Red Phase. The County will need to be in the Green Phase for face-to-face instruction to resume. https://www.governor.pa.gov/process-to-reopen-pennsylvania/

Summer Languages

This summer the Seminary will offer Greek and Hebrew fully online. We previously announced that the first term would occur online. We’ve updated that decision to include both terms online.

As always, if you have questions about the Seminary’s COVID-19 response, please contact Jim Downey at Click to view e-mail.

David Esterline, President

Friends and colleagues,

Today’s reflection comes from Associate Professor of Christian Spirituality and Ministry Dr. Roger Owens. In these words, he reminds us that “all shall be well.” Though it doesn’t always seems like that’s possible these days, God’s loving care will prevail and indeed all shall be well.

Remember God’s love today and in the uncertain days ahead,

David Esterline, President

_____

On the wall above my basement desk hangs a hand-lettered quotation from fourteenth-century mystic Julian of Norwich.

I find myself looking up at it frequently, after a Zoom preaching class, say. Or a Zoom spiritual formation session. Or a Zoom faculty lunch or faculty meeting or advising session. I glance up and I read the most famous line from Julian’s Revelations of Divine Love: “All shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well.”

Julian lived in what one historian dubbed “the calamitous fourteenth century.” She survived two outbreaks of the plague. She lived as a hermit in a small apartment attached to a church—a life of social isolation—and spent her days alone in prayer. She ate simple meals and worked, perhaps weaving paraments for the church. She offered spiritual guidance through a window. She lived the life she thought would best allow her to serve God and her community.

During her life, she received visions from God, and she interrogated God about them: Why suffering? Why sin? Why death? In the end, she received assurance that, while the world seemed to be coming unstitched, God’s loving care would prevail: “All shall be well.”

Those are words I need these days. They allow me to hold loosely my fears and the sometimes debilitating realization that there’s so little I can do to make things turn out well. All we can do, these words help me to see, is live as faithfully as we can the lives we’ve been given.

And for me that means: sampling my oldest son’s cupcakes and shooting baskets with my younger son and reading to my daughter before bed and eavesdropping on my wife’s Zoom meetings and adding a splash of almond extract to my coffee in the morning and having a piece of dark chocolate each night after dinner, because—why not?

It means trying to get another chapter of that book drafted and not berating myself when I don’t. It means prepping for class, adjusting to technology.

It means taking walks, letting the embarrassingly extravagant display of the dogwoods take my breath away.

It means praying for pastors and chaplains, doctors and nurses, the sick and the dying.

It means not saying no to the tears when they come. And they come.

“All shall be well,” a mystic and saint heard God say 600 years ago, the one thing all the saints seemed to have known deep in their bones.

The one thing, perhaps, we need to hear in order to persevere, to get on with the laughing and weeping and working in the hermitages of our own homes, or wherever it is we find ourselves. To continue in hope as we witness to God’s loving care.

Roger

April 29, 2020

Dear PTS Community,

Future Planning

While the State and Federal governments have not yet provided clear guidelines about when and the conditions under which schools might reopen, the Seminary is committed to making decisions rooted in science, driven by data, and informed by the guidance of public health experts and government officials.

The Coronavirus Response Team is considering a long list of questions regarding our phased reopening—when, to what extent, protective measures (such as masks for all employees, students, and visitors; shields for common areas such as Reception and the Business Office; social distancing in classrooms and meetings), availability of food service and catering, tenants on campus, external groups meeting here, and on and on. As we make these decisions, we’ll be sure to share more information.

Chapel Bells May 3

On Sun., May 3 at 7:00 p.m., the chapel bells will ring for three minutes because the Seminary is participating in Bells Across Pennsylvania Day. The first minute will honor first responders, health care workers, and employees of grocery stores, pharmacies, and other life-sustaining businesses who have provided essential services while at risk of infection with the coronavirus. The second minute will demonstrate “solidarity with residents of municipalities across the Commonwealth” who are battling COVID-19 on the front lines of the crisis. And the final minute will signify “a collective resolve that Pennsylvanians will prevail over COVID-19 and work tirelessly to ensure that their businesses and civic life will thrive once again.”

Commencement

On May 29, the Seminary will mark its 224^th commencement with a celebratory video acknowledging our graduates by name and providing an opportunity for fellowship. Faculty, staff, and graduates, watch your e-mail for more info about ways you can participate in the video.

Facemasks Available

Members of the Seminary community are hard at work sewing beautiful facemasks. Do you need one? If so, e-mail Nadine Banks (nbanks@pts.edu) with your request. She’ll make sure that a supply is available in the mailroom for pick up. Please remember to follow the Seminary’s campus access policy when retrieving your mask. The mailroom is open Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Additionally, the Seminary is purchasing masks at cost from a client of our insurance broker. These masks will make great backups if anyone needs an extra or if visitors forget their masks.

Meetings/Gatherings on Campus

Community members have begun asking if they can gather at PTS (perhaps in cars in our parking lot at an appropriate social distance, for example). As long as the Seminary campus remains closed, we will not allow groups of any size to gather here, even if following social distancing guidelines. Your good health is important to us, and we’re committed to the common good.

Metz Closed throughout the Summer

Regardless of when the Seminary reopens, food service will not be available through at least the end of August.

As a reminder, if you have questions about the Seminary’s COVID-19 response, please contact Jim Downey at Click to view e-mail.

Thank you for your ongoing patience and cooperation as we face these sometimes difficult days,

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

Again this week in our now customary Friday e-mail, you hear from another member of our seminary community—Dean Heather Vacek. Like many of us, she’s using art, specifically knitting, as a way to stay busy during our current situation and stay grounded in her faith. As you’ll read below, Dean Vacek writes, “The slow and steady process of creating a blanket stitch by stitch reminds me of all of the ways God has been, is, and will be tending to God’s beloved creation, minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day, season by season, year by year.” Today and every day we “give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever” (Ps. 136:26).

May each of you feel God’s love, especially in these weary days.

David

_____

Suspecting that I was going to need the stress relief and infusion of creative energy that knitting provides me, I snuck in a yarn purchase before retailers closed in March. I’m currently four feet into my first pandemic-project, a lap blanket for my son, who graduates from college and moves into his first apartment this summer. Because I can work on this particular project without having to look at my hands, knitting off-screen makes a perfect accompaniment to Zoom meetings, or at least ones that I’m not leading.

I’ve realized, however, that this pandemic project is providing more than simply a way to occupy my hands during these unanticipated hours (and hours and hours) at home. The comforting repetitiveness of stitch after stitch has provided a sort of grounding that reminds me of all of the things that remain constant in this time of turbulence: the love of family and friends, my gratefulness for good colleagues, the ever-miraculous arrival of spring, the blessings of small comforts (chocolate! walks! unexpected time with a college kid!), and hope for future flourishing. That, in turn, has offered me a perfect reminder of the steadfastness of God’s love. The slow and steady process of creating a blanket stitch by stitch reminds me of all of the ways God has been, is, and will be tending to God’s beloved creation, minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day, season by season, year by year.

As this blanket grows, it’s also a helpful marker of time. It turns out that four feet of blanket is a lot to have scrunched onto my lap. The weight of the blanket is a reminder of just how long we’ve been at this reconfigured, quarantined life. Four feet of blanket reminds me that it’s no wonder I’m a little weary and that so many of us are tired. At the same time, a lap full of blanket reminds me of the hope that this knitting project – and this time of sequestering for the benefit of lives in our community – will provide comfort and a sense of safety when complete.

Whatever your pandemic-project might be, I pray that each member of our community finds both grounding and hope in these days and in the days ahead. May you be aware of God’s steadfast presence with you, now and always.

Heather Vacek

Dear PTS Community,

As I continue to be in touch with leaders in other seminaries and meet (by phone) each week with the presidents of the universities and colleges in Pittsburgh, it is good to hear how other schools are considering and making decisions on how best to deliver quality education in a changed world. Each of us is striving to serve our students, keep our communities safe, and plan for a future full of unknowns. We are all in this together!

Pennsylvania State Shelter-in-Place Restrictions Continue

As you’ve likely heard, Governor Wolf has extended the state’s shelter-in-place restrictions through at least May 8. Please note again that our plans for reopening (when, to what extent, practicing which health precautions, etc.) will be based on local, state, and federal guidelines. Residents are also required to wear a facemask when in public. Need a mask? See the note below. It’s important to remember to continue practicing social distancing (at least 6 feet) and good hand washing practices (at least 20 seconds with soap and water).

Future Planning

A number of folks—scientists, politicians, college presidents, theologians, and others—have written articles about planning for the future amid this pandemic. In one recent article, the authors wrote, “The novel coronavirus is not just something for leaders to ‘get through’ for a few days or weeks. Instead, we need to treat COVID-19 as an economic and cultural blizzard, winter, and beginning of a ‘little ice age’— a once-in-a-lifetime change that is likely to affect our lives and organizations for years.” You can read the article online.

The Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team, President’s Cabinet, and Board of Directors are using scenario planning to help us think about how to plan for what lies ahead in a time of great uncertainty. We are considering what campus life might look like if we quickly “return to normal” and there’s relatively low impact on the budget. Likewise, we’re considering what campus life might look like if there’s more extreme impact on the budget and enrollment and we offer courses fully online. And, we’re considering a number of scenarios in between. As we work through this planning process, we value community input to ensure that we’re considering all the ways decisions will affect course offerings, special programs, staffing, budget, enrollment, and fundraising, among other areas. Along the way, we will share a calendar of dates by which important decisions will be made. We covet your prayers and patience as we work through complex decisions.

Academic News

The faculty are meeting regularly to discuss plans for the next academic year. As decisions are made, we will keep you posted. We are considering course delivery methods, social distancing measures, field education placements, intercultural trips, and other academic matters. At this point, we are focused on detailed planning that allows for flexibility as situations change. Students should meet with their advisors and register for summer and fall classes.

Accessing Campus

If you need to be on campus during this time, please wear your facemask. The CDC offers this guidance regarding masks: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html. Facemasks can be made available for those who need them.

Commencement

On May 29, the Seminary will mark its 224^th commencement with a celebratory video acknowledging our graduates by name and providing an opportunity for fellowship. We’ll share more information by e-mail as that project takes shape. Thanks to the members of the graduating class who met with Dean Vacek to offer suggestions for planning this celebration.

Counseling Services Available

These have proven to be stressful times for not just students but for working individuals and families. To help you manage the stress brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, please be aware of the professional services available at PPI as well as at PTS through the ThrivingCampus website: https://pts.thrivingcampus.com/. Major insurance cards are accepted. Your health and the health of your family is important to us.

Enrollment Update

Understandably, the current health crisis likely will have a negative effect on fall enrollment across all of higher ed. As of this writing, the Seminary anticipates welcoming two international students from Ghana and Myanmar. However, immigration and visa restrictions may make their attendance challenging. Some prospective students are delaying their application process. Admissions is working hard to serve all folks in the enrollment funnel. We should expect some students to delay their decision until schools decide on class delivery mode.

Facemasks Available

Members of the Seminary community are hard at work sewing beautiful facemasks. Do you need one? If so, e-mail Nadine Banks (Click to view e-mail) with your request. She’ll make sure that a supply is available in the mailroom for pick up. Please remember to follow the Seminary’s campus access policy when retrieving your mask. The mailroom is open Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Mifis

Members of the community who received a mifi from the Seminary can keep the devices through the summer. Students who are graduating will need to return the mifi to IT at the end of the semester. Directions are forthcoming.

Museum Closed through June

The Seminary’s Kelso Museum of Near Eastern Archaeology will remain closed through at least June 30.

Student Billing

As a reminder, students who need to make payments to the Seminary’s Business Office can mail a check or pay online.

Zoom Backgrounds

Looking to change up your Zoom background during class or meetings? Use a picture of the Seminary’s beautiful campus! See the posts on our Facebook and Instagram pages for photo options and instructions.

My prayers continue to be with you and your loved ones,

David Esterline, President

Dear Seminary Community,

As we come to the end of the fifth week of learning, teaching, and working from home, I figure you may want to hear from other voices within the Seminary. I’ve invited the Rev. Charles Fischer, VP for Seminary Advancement, to share something about his quarantine experience. Although we’re all experiencing this time together, we’re living it in different ways. For Charles—and for many of you—that means as a professional, partner, and parent, all at the same time.

As we continue to adjust to our many (even new) roles, remember to grant yourself the same grace you are extending to others.

Be well. My prayers for you and those dear to you continue; thank you for your prayers for the community.

David Esterline, President

__________

My schedule is set. Zoom call at 9:00, phone meeting at 11:00, e-mail to be delivered. My day is all in order. “Daddy, will you play with me?” “Dad, can you help me with my school work?” “Daddy, can I have a snack?”

Ever since mid-March, most of us—if not all of us—have found ourselves in our homes far more often than we had ever anticipated. We have made more use of space and have even appropriated other areas of our homes to serve as another office, home sanctuary, or TV/Zoom production area. We have come to learn how to adapt and to make some old things new. 

During our sheltering in, my wife and I have renegotiated our roles as partners, parents, and professionals. We have also become school superintendents, principals, classroom teachers, cafeteria workers, guidance counselors, hall monitors, gym teachers, crossing guards, and I am sure that I am forgetting a role or two. Our two sons have been able to adjust to their new eLearning environments in ways that have impressed us both. I am still trying to figure out how to wear all the many hats that I knew I possessed and wear them all at the same time while even putting on new ones. I am not sure if I really signed up for all this—at least not all at once. I had taken a false comfort earlier on that our current situation would be short lived. We would return to what we understood as “normal” before May. The kids would return to school for at least the last month, and the summer would be wonderful. But now we can’t predict much of anything.

My responsibilities as a professional and my ministry at the Seminary continues as well. Though I may not be able to enjoy the comforts of my desk in Long and walk the halls to interact with colleagues, students, and faculty, the work continues. The joy remains of knowing that I am striving to ensure every student is able to afford a first-rate theological education. The focus remains in finding individuals to support the initiatives of the Seminary and finding ways to help others invest in our great institution. I just have to do it all in a new way. We are all learning how to do a lot in a new way.

Let me assure you that I have not found the answer. I mess up often. I may have missed a PTS Zoom call because I have been in a Zoom classroom with a preschooler who needs his father close as he sees his friends on a screen. I may find myself wearing ear buds as a necessary accessory to remain connected with colleagues when once that would be considered to be rude. And I lament going to my coffee pot in the kitchen because I will not be able to run into one of the many fine people at PTS who I miss so very much.

I hold on to the promise of the Resurrection that we experienced earlier this week. It is the Easter season and we are Easter people. Or maybe Paul said it better, “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” (2 Cor. 5:17). Well, I am not ready for everything to pass away. I am trying to be a new creation and see many things in new ways. When it comes to being a parent, partner, and professional in this new world, somedays I am better at one or more of those roles and somedays I may completely fail. No matter what the situation may be, I am becoming something new. Maybe this is the same for some of you reading this now.

Alas, I think I hear a pre-teen walking about and a preschooler looking for lunch, a wife needing assistance, and Zoom call reminder on my calendar. I can’t do them all. But one day I may surprise myself and see that I can do them all a little better than the day before.

Peace to you,
Charles Fischer III, Vice President for Seminary Advancement

Dear PTS Community,

The Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team and the Cabinet met yesterday to continue discussing institutional operations amid the virus outbreak. As I meet weekly with other presidents of Pittsburgh’s colleges and universities and in my contact with other ATS presidents, I become ever aware that higher education institutions across the city and seminaries around the country are facing similar conversations and decisions.

Budget Implications—Hiring and Salary Freezes

As we shared in last week’s update, the drop in the stock market has negatively affected the Seminary’s endowment and will in turn affect our FY 20-21 budget. At the end of March, the Seminary’s endowment was down by $33.6 million, representing a 16 percent decline from Dec. 31, 2019. Later this week we’ll receive a revised forecast from our investment advisors. As you know, the market is constantly fluctuating these days, and no one can predict when it will recover and to what point. For that reason, as of today the Seminary is instituting a hiring freeze. We will discontinue our search for the human resources manager and junior accountant. We will not consider any new positions at this time. The Cabinet will reevaluate this decision in June. Additionally, we are instituting a salary freeze for FY 20-21. While we certainly strive to give salary increases each year, that is not financially possible in our current economy.

Academic News

The Seminary is committed to offering the necessary courses to ensure that students can complete their academic programs on time. Though the format of the learning may need to change based on government guidelines and the desire to protect the health of our community, program length will not be affected by the coronavirus.

Church Planting and Revitalization Certificate

The Seminary’s next CPandR cohort will begin online this summer with coaching and mentoring sessions. We’re still working to confirm the location of each subsequent meeting of this new cohort. As that information is determined, we’ll share it with you and update the website.

Summer Classes

This summer the Seminary will offer 10 classes—Church Planting and Revitalization, Doctor of Ministry cohorts (two each of Parish—Risking Faithfully, Christian Spirituality, and Missional Leadership), Greek, and Hebrew. We’ll offer these courses online.

Summer Languages

Summer languages will be offered this summer as planned. For at least the first term (June 1-July 10), classes will meet online—with synchronous and asynchronous elements.

Student Assistance

Along with all institutions of higher education across the country, the Seminary will receive funds from the Emergency Stabilization Fund from the Department of Education through the CARES Act. At least 50 percent of the funds must go directly to students to assist with emergency financial needs related to the disruption of COVID-19. We have now learned that the Seminary will receive $40,736. Tracy Riggle Young, John Welch, and Charles Fischer are working to create an application process by which students can qualify for these funds. The Financial Aid Committee will review this process before it’s implemented.

Advancement Functions at PTS

At this time, the Seminary’s Advancement team is considering how best to secure donations to assist students who have been financially affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Over the last weeks, the Advancement efforts have focused on pastoral care for our givers. We’ll soon switch to asking for financial support. The process by which these funds are distributed will likely follow the same process as the CARES Act funds mentioned above.

Commencement

Earlier this week Heather Vacek invited graduating seniors to share their ideas regarding how best to mark this year’s commencement. As these discusses progress and decisions are made, we’ll keep the community updated.

Paying Invoices

As shared in previous e-mails and reminders, the Seminary has a process by which we can process check requests remotely. Please consider asking vendors to send electronic invoices instead paper bills. This will ensure that you are timely in receiving the invoice, e-mailing the check request, and the Business Office processing payment.

Facemasks Available

Members of the Seminary community are hard at work sewing beautiful facemasks. Do you need one? If so, e-mail Nadine Banks (nbanks@pts.edu) with your request. She’ll make sure that a supply is available in the mailroom for pick up. Please remember to follow the Seminary’s campus access policy when retrieving your mask. The mailroom is open Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Thank you for your great cooperation during these difficult times. Stay safe!

David Esterline, President

Dear friends in the PTS community,

Foremost in my mind as we move through these weeks is how grateful I am for each of you and how much I appreciate our seminary community. Your readiness to embrace change in such a difficult time, your cooperation and resilience, and the extra, often extraordinary work so many of you have undertaken—for each of these expressions of commitment and care for each other and for the community I am truly thankful.

I also appreciate the way you reach out with encouragement and wisdom. I’d like to share two examples. I received these at different points in these last weeks, but I think they fit well together, and I think they are very fit for this time.

The first, from a student leader, is from J. R. R.Tolkein, in which Frodo says: “I wish none of this had ever happened.” Gandalf responds: “So do all who live to see such times. But that is not for us to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.”

The second, from a cabinet colleague, is from C. S. Lewis, writing in the late 1940s about living with the possibility of an atomic bomb. Lewis writes: “let that bomb when it comes find us doing sensible and human things—praying, working, teaching, reading, listening to music, bathing the children” (Lewis adds “chatting to our friends over a pint,” but unhappily that doesn’t fit our time—except virtually).

Staying in touch is so important in this time. As a friend in another theological education community regularly encourages us: don’t let social distancing turn into social or emotional isolation for some. I encourage you: reach out, stay in touch.

Today is Thursday in Holy Week. Today we remember how Jesus gathered with his disciples—ate with them, washed their feet, and gave them a new commandment.

If it were possible to travel today, and I had an hour or two, I’d likely head to St. Emma Monastery, just outside Greensburg. As you drive into the parking lot, you can see the chapel and main part of the monastery on your left, but if you continue on and look to the right you will see a large stone table set off by itself in a meadow. The table is large, with 12 empty seats placed around it, and a life-sized bronze statue of Jesus seated at the center on the far side of the table. He has bread in his hands, as though he has just broken it, and now is holding it out in two pieces. I would leave the car and walk down to the table and sit on one of the empty seats—maybe beside Jesus, or maybe across from him—and listen. And I would remember how on the night before his arrest, our Lord took bread—

God’s peace to you, my friends. May Easter’s message of hope ring especially loud and clear this year!

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

As we’ve communicated in previous e-mails, our “new normal”—teaching and learning online, working from home, and staying at home except for essential outings—will be the case for the foreseeable future. And as long as this is the case, you will receive a weekly e-mail like this one with updates about the life of the Seminary.

Accessing Campus

We previously shared the Seminary’s policy regarding campus access during the quarantine. The policy remains in place. We also recognize that now you may need to retrieve additional items from your office to continue working from home. If that’s the case, please follow the steps below and limit visits to campus to once every three weeks beginning Mon., April 13.

• Faculty or staff e-mail his/her respective VP requesting access to office.
  • The subject line of e-mail should be REQUEST FOR ACCESS.
  • Include Tom Hinds in “To:” and Tom Fulton in “Cc:”.
  • Include expected arrival time.
  • Include estimated departure time.
• Available access hours will be 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and access will be limited to employees only.
• Faculty or staff will contact Campus Security when they arrive on campus.
• Campus Security will meet faculty or staff and open door for access.
  • If access has not been pre-approved, the following emergency procedure will be allowed once:
  • Faculty or staff to send text messages to respective VP, Tom Hinds 412-330-9284, and Tom Fulton 412-398-2018.
  • Once all have responded, Tom Hinds will call Campus Security’s cell phone to authorize access.
  • On second or later attempts, faculty or staff will be denied access.
• Campus Security will check office 15-30 minutes after estimated departure time and ask faculty or staff to leave if he/she is still there.

Aid Available for Students

Student Emergency Funds

The Seminary’s student emergency fund, known as the Swart Fund, is under the management of Dean Welch and provides assistance to students who are facing unanticipated and temporary financial hardships, including those resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak. These funds are not loans but are awarded as grants in hope of addressing a financial need. Students who think they may qualify can fill out and submit the Student Emergency Fund application, available on My.PTS, along with supporting documentation of need and hardship. The Seminary is working to update the fund policy to ensure that we can assist as many students as possible. Although distribution of funds can continue, there may be a delay in processing these requests. Contact Dean Welch with questions.

Care Backpacks

Renaissance Church, which typically meets on our campus for worship services, has made care backpacks available for students with need. Please contact Tom Fulton to arrangement for pickup or drop off of a care package.

Government Funds

Along with all institutions of higher education across the country, the Seminary anticipates receiving funds from the Emergency Stabilization Fund from the Department of Education through the CARES Act. At least 50 percent of the funds must go directly to students to assist with emergency financial needs related to the disruption of COVID-19. While we are waiting to learn the exact amount, we are working to create an application process by which students can qualify for these funds. We will provide more information about this process.

Student Loan Forbearance

The Department of Education is putting student loans into administrative forbearance from March 12-Sept. 30, 2020. Students with questions should contact their loan servicer directly. To find your loan servicer you may contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) at 800-433-3243.

Budget

Although the Seminary had a balanced budget at the beginning of March for the next fiscal year, the health of the economy is different these days. As we continue to determine next year’s budget, which will inevitably need to be less than planned, at this time please keep your spending to essential items only. What can you defer right now? So while expenses like some facilities maintenance, admissions advertising, and software for online learning are essential, purchasing stock piles of office supplies, launching new initiatives, or buying coffee for the break room is not. We may need maximum flexibility for future spending and can only do this by conserving cash now. Please talk with your VP before spending from this year’s budget and planning for FY 20-21. Deferred spending now will help with the current fiscal year and will help us prepare for next year. The Cabinet will decide how best to allocate available funds.

CARES Act

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, mentioned above under aid available to students, recently became law in the U.S. The Act provides financial assistance to 501-C3s, non-profits, and small businesses with less than 500 employees. Churches have intentionally been included in this Act. The goal is to keep finances in the bank accounts of American organizations and the employees within. Within the Act is a specific provision called the Paycheck Protection Program, which provides funding for 2.5 months of an organization’s average monthly payroll, including benefits, with forgiveness provisions so long as the organization workforce remains the same for the eight-week period following loan origination. The Seminary is applying for these funds. Tom Hinds will serve as the Seminary’s CARE Act coordinator.

Commencement

As previously communicated, the Seminary will mark this year’s commencement on May 29, though not in person. Dean Vacek will meet via Zoom in April with interested graduating seniors to discuss plans and solicit input from graduates. Degrees will be conferred on May 29. At this point we’re considering a fall in-person service. Graduates will be invited to “walk” either then or next spring. We will not hold a Service of Thanksgiving this year.

Continuing Education

The Henderson Summer Leadership Conference scheduled for May 31-June 3, 2020, has been postponed. Keynote speaker Valarie Kaur will join us 2021.

Internet Access

Students, staff, and faculty who are experiencing issues with their home Internet service are encouraged to contact Dave Middleton to secure a mifi device, which provides wireless connection. These devices are free of charge and can be used throughout the quarantine. The device will be mailed to you.

As always, if you have questions related to Seminary functioning during this time, contact Jim Downey.

Stay well,

David Esterline, President

Dear friends and colleagues in the PTS community,

With thanks to each of you, we’ve made it to Friday – another week that likely felt more like 7 years than 7 days. However long or short the coming weekend may feel, I am certainly grateful for Sabbath!

And overwhelmingly grateful to each of you for your exceptional work and collaboration in this extraordinary time. Your flexibility and ability to bounce back and continue in new ways with care for others and grace all around is an honest inspiration. Thank you! It is so good to be part of this community at this time.

This is an extraordinary time. To be more direct, this time is extraordinarily difficult, with a degree of uncertainty and loss we can hardly comprehend.

A few weeks ago, on the first Sunday it was recognized that we should not gather for worship in person, a pastor in Southern California (the Rev Alex Wirth, who also happens to be a former student of mine) posted a prayer that spoke to my anxiety and worry. Here is part:

Gracious and Loving God,
So many things are closed or cancelled now.
We are isolating and cutoff from community.
But you, Holy One, are not closed at all. You are open to all.          
Your love for us is not cancelled. Your presence among us is not cancelled.
You remain our God even in the midst of our fear.
Come and transform our anxiety and worry into calm and patience,
at least for a while, so our minds can stop racing.
Holy Spirit, grant us a moment of peace,
so that we might hear your call in the midst of the storm.

Remember to take time to breathe, even in the midst of this storm. It is so good that spring hasn’t been cancelled!

One more thought: if you are wondering if you should check the news (one more time) just before sleep, may I suggest that you have a look at Psalm 4 instead, especially verse 8:

In peace I will lie down and sleep,
For you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Peace to you, my friends.

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

As you can imagine, folks all across the institution are considering how to continue the Seminary’s work of educating students and carrying on the good work of our special programs. Below is what we know at this time. Please reach out with questions. And know that we’ll continue to share updates as future decisions are made.

Commencement

The measures that the Seminary is taking, while necessary, create hardship and uncertainty for many in our community. Although the Seminary will confer degrees on our graduating seniors May 29, there will not be an in-person spring 2020 commencement. While the exact shape of the May 29 celebration is still being considered, we are committed to marking our students’ success this spring and holding an in-person gathering at a later date. Our seniors have worked so hard and we know that they, and their families, would want to celebrate this milestone. Please share your thoughts on alternative and innovative ways to recognize this occasion, vibrantly and safely. E-mail Heather Vacek with suggestions.

Summer Courses

At this time, Dean Vacek and faculty are considering the options for the best delivery format for the summer classes, which include Greek and Hebrew. The Intercultural Experiential Learning trips had previously been canceled.

Working from Home

Due to Governor Wolf’s announcement that schools and businesses are closed indefinitely, staff and faculty will continue working from home until at least the government deems it safe to return to campus.

Current Classes

All reports indicate that the quick and necessary move to online and alternative learning is going well. Students and faculty are finding ways to build community online, share concerns, and continue learning together. With special thanks to our great team in IT (Dave Middleton, Tyler Mumau, Dave Keys, and Brian Fidell) for making this transition so smooth!

Apartment Disposition

On March 31, representatives from PTS and ACTION-Housing discussed the pending sale of the Seminary’s apartments (Anderson, Highlander, and McMillan). At this time, the closing is still scheduled for June. Both parties understand that the COVID-19 outbreak may alter the construction timeline and may make it more difficult for non-PTS student residents to look for alternative housing. Conversations are ongoing, and the Seminary is committed to minimizing disruption and caring well for students. We will communicate directly with residents in the days ahead with more information.

Board Meeting

The Seminary’s Board meeting scheduled for May 12-13 will occur as scheduled. However, since they cannot meet in person, they’ll gather via Zoom for blocks of time to discuss Seminary operations amid the COVID-19 outbreak and continue to engage key strategic initiatives. We will host a virtual Town Hall after the meeting. Exact date and time are forthcoming.

Church Planting Initiative           

At this time, CPI is considering options for this summer’s Church Planting and Revitalization cohort. Options include proceeding with the June experience (gathering at the Seminary as planned) or moving that in-person course back to take place during the already scheduled September gathering dates, then moving each subsequent in-person course back one slot, and pushing the April 2021 course to June 2021. This decision will be made by May 1.

Doctor of Ministry

The DMin Reformed Focus (with the University of Scotland) start date has been pushed back to June 2021. DMin staff (Denise Thorpe, Ramona Spencer, and Jim Durlesser) are routinely checking in with students to offer pastoral care to our students who are likely pastors themselves. Current students are meeting via Zoom each Thursday for a time of prayer. Additionally, the cohorts scheduled to meet on campus this June will instead meet online in the mornings during the two DMin weeks and we’ll then hold a four-day in-person session for students this fall.

Miller Summer Youth Institute

This year’s SYI summer internship is shifting to a three-phase program with remote responsibilities for the summer of 2020, followed by a winter retreat, and residential phase in 2021. The inaugural gathering with Westminster College (New Wilmington, Pa.) will occur in summer 2021 and will coincide with the launch of new programming at Waynesburg University. Erin and Derek Davenport will launch digital initiatives this summer to connect with and provide opportunities for SYI alums.

Worship

As you’re aware, the Seminary community is invited to gather each Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for worship via Zoom. It’s a great opportunity to “see” others, calm our hearts, and pray and give thanks together.

And as always, please remember to wash your hands, practice good cough/sneeze hygiene, and maintain at least six feet between others when walking to a local park or shopping for groceries. Stay home, stay safe.

Many, many thanks to everyone in the community for pulling together. Special thanks to Melissa Logan for help with communication and to all other members of the cabinet for clear and wise leadership.

After reading these updates about Seminary life in these days, you may have further questions about our response to COVID-19. Please contact Jim Downey at Click to view e-mail.

With continued prayers for you and those you hold dear,

David

April 1, 2020

Today, we learned that a Pittsburgh Theological Seminary campus resident living in Fulton has tested positive for COVID-19. The person is recovering in isolation, and we are providing them support during their recovery. The person has everything they need in their apartment at this time. Out of respect for the privacy of the resident and in compliance with privacy laws, the Seminary cannot disclose the identity of the resident. Anyone known to be in close contact with the person is self-isolating and monitoring symptoms for 14 days per public health guidance.

The person was tested March 27, and the Seminary received the results today, April 1. We have been in direct contact with the person. Based on the information gathered, the risk of transmission for the general Seminary community from this case is considered to be low. The person has been isolated since March 22. According to the medical advice they received, the person is to remain in isolation for 72 hours from the date they become symptom free.

Community transmission of the COVID-19 virus continues to increase locally, in our region, and in the United States. The vast majority of people who get infected (80 percent or so) have mild cases. As has been our practice over these last few weeks, our maintenance crew will continue to disinfect common areas of campus in accordance with public health recommendations, including an extra cleaning of Fulton.

According to public health authorities, how a community responds to an outbreak can have a direct impact on its duration and severity. By working together—and heeding the wealth of public health expertise that is available to us—we can take significant steps to slow the spread of the virus.

MINIMIZING DISEASE SPREAD

Preventing the spread of disease is everyone’s job. You can help by doing the following:

• Wash your hands frequently – especially after touching doorknobs – and follow proper hand-washing procedures:
  • Use warm water and soap, wash hands for 20 seconds.
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60-95 percent alcohol.
• If you feel ill, stay in your unit and let us know you are feeling sick by calling or e-mailing Tom Hinds at thinds@pts.edu.
  • Separate yourself from other residents and pets.
  • If you need to leave your unit to go to a doctor, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth (or in the absence of a mask, use a scarf or handkerchief) and disposable gloves. Discard these items upon return and/or wash immediately.
  • Any co-residents should use a facemask and or gloves when in the same room as you.
  • Do not use public transportation, ride sharing, or taxis.
  • Do not enter any public areas in the building.
  • Before leaving to go to the doctor, call ahead to let them know if you may have been exposed to a virus.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard immediately in a lined trashcan and wash your hands immediately afterwards following the steps noted above.
• Do not share personal items (dishes, utensil, cups, bedding, towels, etc.).
• Clean all high-touch surfaces every day.
• Some people infected with COVID-19 do not have symptoms and may still be able to transmit the disease to others without knowing that they have it. This is why physical distancing is so important.

KEEPING THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN

• We are monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and Pennsylvania and Allegheny County health departments for updates.
• We will continue to be proactive and transparent in our communication to avoid misinformation and ensure you know what to expect.

Please join me in praying for healing for this person and for health and peace for our entire community in this anxious time.

David Esterline, President

Dear friends and colleagues in the PTS community,

With thanks to each of you, we’ve completed our first week of online teaching and learning, with very few bumps along the way. Genuine thanks to everyone for your extraordinary work, innovation, courage to try new things, and all-around great cooperation. Thank you! Your readiness to embrace change, even in such a troubling time, has made this week an honest success.

Many thanks to the IT team for great support, to all faculty and pedagogy guides, all staff, and all students for being able to bend, bounce back, find new ways, and move on with grace. I am proud to be part of a community where the members care so deeply for each other that we are ready to make radical changes for the benefit of each other and the health of the wider community.

My favorite moment this week? Maybe Wednesday worship. Or maybe reading comments on social media or personal notes of appreciation for the PTS community and how good it is to be here at this time.

I am happy to report that we have no known confirmed cases of COVID-19 on campus or in the PTS student, staff, faculty community. We cannot predict what will develop in the days and weeks ahead, but I can say that all recommended safety and health precautions are in place. Special thanks to Tom Fulton, Joe Mafrici, and John McMahon for disinfecting all common areas each day. We remain committed to communicating as completely and with as much transparency as possible at each step along the way.

Please remember to take time to breathe. Pause. Take time away from work and study. Even away from the news. Breathe deeply. Look for silver linings. Keep a list.

I confessed earlier that over the years I’ve found some Psalms to be so strange or difficult that I turned to them only seldom. There are others, however, that I turn to repeatedly and that always remind me of the One in whose hands I am held. Psalm 91 is one such Psalm. A number of years ago while staying in a monastery I came to realize that in some Christian traditions this Psalm is said (or sung) just before sleep every night of the year—a practice I can certainly recommend. From Psalm 91:

You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty,
Will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.”
For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence;
He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge;
His faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
You will not fear the terror of the night, or the arrow that flies by day,
Or the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, or the destruction that wastes at noonday.
Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place,
No evil shall befall you--

I continue to pray for you and for your loved ones, as I know you continue to pray for everyone in the community.

David Esterline, President

Hi Residents,

As we continue through these anxious and quickly changing times, residents are asking various questions. As we receive individual e-mails, please know that we are responding as quickly and thoroughly as possible. When questions are raised that seem like good questions/answers to share with all residents, you’ll get an e-mail just like this one with what we hope is helpful.

Question: What is happening with student housing?

Answer: Student housing (Calian and the four apartment buildings) is open and will remain so throughout the COVID-19 health crisis. In many cases, your on-campus unit is your home. Even with the PA Governor’s stay-at-home order, our facilities crew will continue to serve our residents on a limited basis and cover essential tasks—trash removal, disinfecting common areas, servicing emergency requests, and the like. Please note, maintenance requests should be sent via e-mail to Tom Fulton at Click to view e-mail. And in the event that you’re experiencing virus symptoms, let Tom know that before a member of the maintenance or security crew comes to your unit.

Question: What should I do if I am feeling sick?

Answer: As a reminder, CDC guidelines require persons who may be experiencing symptoms COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) of to stay home. If you need to be tested, here’s a helpful article about local COVID-19 test sites: https://www.wesa.fm/post/where-get-tested-covid-19-pittsburgh-and-what-you-need-bring#stream/0. And here’s what to do if you’re sick: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html. Remember to practice good cough/sneeze hygiene. Frequently disinfect often touched surfaces in your unit. Wash your hands! Read more from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html. If you need non-emergency medical attention, call ahead to your healthcare provider. If it’s an emergency, then dial 911 or visit the ER! The Seminary has a limited number of temperature strips available if you need to monitor your temp. Just let us know, and we’ll drop one off to you. Also, we’re happy to provide a care package if needed. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, we ask that you let us know.

Question: What should I do if I’ve had COVID-19 symptoms but am now feeling better?

Answer: The protocol for when to discontinue home isolation depends on whether or not you’ve tested positive for the virus.

If you will not have a test to determine if you are still contagious, you can leave home after these three things have happened:

You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers)

AND

other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)

AND

at least seven days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

If you will be tested to determine if you are still contagious, you can leave home after these three things have happened:

You no longer have a fever (without the use medicine that reduces fevers)

AND

other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)

AND

you received two negative tests in a row, 24 hours apart. Your doctor will follow CDC guidelines.

Learn more online: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html.

Question: What should I do if someone in my building is sick?

Answer: If someone in your building is sick, please continue to practice good social distancing and abide by the stay-at-home directive. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person—between people who are in close contact with one another (within about six feet) and through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Although we all want to be helpful to others in this time, keeping your distance is best. If picking up supplies for a sick person, leave the items at the door. Don’t enter their unit. To help protect yourself against the virus, read more on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html.  

Question: Will the COVID-19 health crisis change when ACTION-Housing converts the Seminary’s three apartment buildings into affordable housing?

Answer: Both PTS and ACTION-Housing are aware that the COVID-19 health crisis could have an impact on residents and their decisions regarding housing. PTS representatives have been in dialogue with Action, and we are seeking to determine the best steps going forward. Action is aware of the challenges and is willing to work to the best of their ability to meet our residents’ needs. In the next week or so we should have a better sense of the situation and will provide more detailed information as soon as we have it. We would ask that you be as patient as you can in this uncertain and fast changing time.

Question: When can I pick up my mail from the PTS mailroom?

Answer: The mailroom is open but moving to more limited hours. The likely hours are 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. every other day. Contact Dan Holmes for current hours of operation and for access to the mailroom. You can reach Dan at Click to view e-mail or 412-924-1392.

Have additional questions? Let us know. You can reach me at thinds@pts.edu.

Stay well,

Tom Hinds, VP for Finance and Administration

March 23, 2020

Dear PTS Community,

I’m writing with a number of updates. I also pray that you and those you love are well.

• PTS POSSIBLE CASE—NEGATIVE
  • On Friday evening, we shared with you that a member of the PTS community was being tested for COVID-19. The person received the results today, and they did not test positive. The doctor explained that it is possible that the person had COVID-19 and is no longer carrying or infected with the virus. The person’s family members are continuing their self-quarantine out of an abundance of caution.
• ALLEGHENY COUNTY STAY-AT-HOME ORDER
  • This afternoon, Governor Wolf issued a stay-at-home order for a number of counties, including Allegheny County. There is no curfew in place, but the order goes into effect at 8:00 this evening and is in effect for two weeks. This order emphasizes that individuals in the county, to the extent possible, should stay at home and distance themselves from others. There is no change to the life-sustaining businesses and waivers that have previously been in place, or to the requirements for restaurants to limit their operations to take-out and delivery. The Governor’s office will be issuing more guidelines but says people should only leave the house if absolutely necessary. Grocery stores and pharmacies will still be open.
  • As of this evening, the Seminary is only open to those deemed essential during this time—IT and facilities. No one else will be able to access campus, even to drop off/pick up items. Limited mail service will continue. Those needing to access the mailroom must follow the previously shared procedure.
  • Faculty and staff will be working at home through at least April 6 (two weeks from today’s stay-at-home order).
  • The Seminary will continue to provide essential support to residents in campus housing.
• REMINDERS
  • You must stay in your homes unless not leaving your home endangers a life.
  • Practice good personal hygiene. Wash your hands regularly.
  • Disinfect commonly touched surfaces in your home.
  • Stay at least six feet from others if you must go out.

As new information becomes available, I’ll be in touch.

With prayers for health and God’s peace,

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

The Seminary had 0 reported cases of COVID-19 for the week of July 20-26.

Be well,
Asa Lee, President

Residents,

As you’re aware, these are quickly changing times. State government mandates are becoming more frequent and often with less lead time.

Anticipating that there may be a shelter in place order in the future, as there has been in other cities, we invite you to think about where you would like to be in the event that that occurs. If you would feel more comfortable at home, or in a different home other than PTS, please make arrangements to do so. If you wish to remain on campus, we will continue to support you in resident housing.

If the shelter in place order does occur, people will not be permitted to come and go. We will be expected to simply stay where we are. So if you leave now, please understand that you should not return to campus until the government and the Seminary give permission to do so. Remember to take needed belongings—medicine, computers, books, etc. If you decide to stay on campus, remember that the CDC is suggesting social distancing (at least six feet between people) to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

As we’ve previously communicated, there are three options regarding moving out and payment:

1. No change - Continue to live in your unit as you are currently doing
2. Move out completely
   1. Notify the Business Office of your planned move out date
   2. Remove all of your furniture and personal belongings
   3. Return keys
   4. Business Office will prorate the rent and issue a refund accordingly
3. Leave the campus but furniture and personal belongings remain for one month or longer
   1. Notify the Business Office that you are planning to leave your apartment for a period of 30 days or longer
   2. Provide Business Office with date of departure and expected date of return
   3. Your rent for each full month of this extended absence will be reduced to one-half of the regular monthly rent
   4. Keep in mind you cannot periodically use your unit during the extended absence

Some residents have asked questions about what exactly “shelter in place” means as it relates to COVID-19. Pennsylvania has not yet ordered residents to shelter in place. We’re simply encouraging you to be prepared if that announcement is made.

Basically “shelter in place” means to stay at home. The purpose of such an order is to enforce social distancing, or to keep people away from each other to limit the spread of the virus. You can still go outside! The threat of spreading COVID-19 increases when you are close proximity to people who are infected, whether they know it or not. So city, state, and the federal government are asking residents to minimize their time spent with the public.

In other U.S. cities, the order has plenty of exemptions for "essential" activities. What exactly is essential? For example, the shelter-in-place order that San Francisco adopted has fairly large exemptions for health, work, food, and even exercise. There, city officials ordered residents to remain in place at their homes except for essential activities, essential business, and essential government functions, including:

• Tasks essential to maintain health and safety, such as obtaining medicine or seeing a doctor.
• Getting necessary services or supplies for themselves or their family or household members, such as getting food and supplies, pet food and supplies necessary for staying at home.
• Engaging in outdoor activity, such as walking, hiking, or running provided that they maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing.
• Caring for a family member in another household.
• Caring for elderly, minors, dependents, people with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons.

Again, in San Francisco, the shelter-in-place order also does not apply to those going to work in an essential business or essential government function. That includes:

• Health care operations.
• Grocery stores, food banks, convenience stores.
• Businesses that provide necessities of life for economically disadvantaged individuals and shelter facilities.
• Pharmacies, health care supply stores, and health care facilities.
• Gas stations and auto repair facilities.
• Banks.
• Garbage collection.
• Hardware stores.
• Businesses that ship or deliver groceries, food, and goods directly to residences.
• Child care facilities providing services that enable essential employees to go to work.

Pennsylvania may adopt different measures or different definitions of essential functions. Regardless, the idea is that people should stay home as much as possible.

We hope this helps to answer some of your questions. In the event that PA does order residents to shelter in place, we’ll pass along more information.

Meantime, don’t hesitate to continue asking questions: Click to view e-mail or 412-924-1369.

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

Consistent with our ongoing efforts to provide up-to-date information and resources, we are writing to notify you that a member of the Pittsburgh Seminary community who lives in McMillan went to the hospital today with symptoms of the coronavirus and was tested. The results will not be available until Monday.

We realize that knowledge of this possible case will surely increase anxiety among the Seminary community. This is understandable. This possible case underscores the need for the Seminary to continue its swift and comprehensive response to the COVID-19 outbreak:

• We have shifted to online instruction for all classes;
• We have established a policy on remote work for all employees;
• We continue to seek the best guidance from public health experts;
• We are sanitizing our facilities and public spaces on a continuous basis.

One of the clearest guidelines from public health authorities, in the U.S. and around the world, is how a community responds to an outbreak can have direct impact on its duration and severity. By working together—and heeding the wealth of public health expertise that is available to us—we can take material steps to slow the spread of the virus.

As always, please consult our dedicated COVID-19 website for the latest information. We will communicate additional updates very soon.

In addition to our existing cleaning, disinfecting, and maintenance policies, we are also taking the following measures:

• CLEANING AND EDUCATION
  • We will increase frequency and deep cleaning of hard surfaces in common areas–laundry facilities, doorknobs, and the like.
  • We have installed hand sanitizer dispensers in the buildings entrances and other common areas, including frequent maintenance to ensure the dispensers remain operational.
  • You will notice additional signage posted to educate you on how to prevent the spread of infection.
     
• MINIMIZING DISEASE SPREAD
  • Preventing the spread of disease is everyone’s job. You can help by doing the following:
    • Wash your hands frequently – especially after touching doorknobs – and follow proper hand-washing procedures:
      • Use warm water and soap, wash hands for 20 seconds.
      • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60-95 percent alcohol.
  • If you feel ill, stay in your unit and let us know you are feeling sick by calling or e-mailing Tom Hinds at 412-924-1369 or Click to view e-mail.
    • Separate yourself from other residents and pets.
    • If you need to leave your unit to go to a doctor, please wear a mask over your nose and mouth (or in the absence of a mask, use a scarf or handkerchief) and disposable gloves. Discard these items upon return and/or wash immediately.
    • Any co-residents should use a facemask and or gloves when in the same room as you.
    • Do not use public transportation, ride sharing, or taxis.
    • Do not enter any public areas in the building.
    • Before leaving to go to the doctor, call ahead to let them know if you may have been exposed to a virus.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and discard immediately in a lined trashcan and wash your hands immediately afterwards following the steps noted above.
    • Do not share personal items (dishes, utensil, cups, bedding, towels, etc.).
  • Clean all high-touch surfaces every day.
     
• KEEPING THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN
  • We are monitoring information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and Pennsylvania and Allegheny County health departments for updates.
  • We will continue to be proactive and transparent in our communication to avoid panic, misinformation, and ensure your expectations are managed.

Join me in praying for healing for this person and for our entire community as we face anxious times.

David Esterline, President

Dear friends and colleagues in the PTS community,

This is not yet another update, but rather a few personal notes:

First, I want to express how genuinely grateful I am for all of you, and how much I appreciate the extraordinary work, the remarkable patience, the collaboration, cooperation and genuine commitment to our community that is evident everywhere. The honestly amazing work by everyone in preparing for next week. Thank you!

Second, I encourage you to take time to breathe. Pause, take time to do something NOT related to your work or assignments. (I know this is hard for many, maybe for most of us.) Take a break from the news. Do something you really enjoy. Find time over this weekend to take a walk, maybe go for a run (keeping good social distance, of course). Breath deeply.

Third, take heart. I know, so much easier to say than to do.

I confess that over the years I’ve found many of the Psalms, with their weird and frightening images, such as mountains shaking in the midst of the sea (and worse) to be puzzling at best. But I tell you, in these last few days some of those same Psalms—with their reminders that even in profoundly frightening times we can find refuge and strength in God (Ps 46)—have helped me take heart. You will find comfort and your heart less troubled in other places, in other parts of Scripture, through prayer, and through God’s voice, which you will also hear through the texts, emails, and phone calls of friends. Listen. Take heart.

My heartfelt prayers are with you all, and with your loved ones.

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

Many of you may have seen or heard Governor Wolf’s press conference yesterday instructing all non-essential businesses to close as of last evening. And many of you may now have questions about what this means for the Seminary. In short, we will stay the course that we’ve already established—online learning and remote working.

The Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) school presidents talked by phone this morning with Noe Ortega, the deputy secretary of education/commissioner for higher education for PA to talk about what the governor’s order means for us. While higher education is considered “non-essential,” each of our institutions consists of separate functions, recognizing that some are essential—such as providing housing for international and other students who may need to remain on campus and having IT staff here to ensure continuity of essential services. It was also named explicitly that all faculty and all staff (except those who are absolutely essential) should not be on campus. In short, we should be “as closed as possible,” not only to follow the directive from our state government, but also to do everything we can to mitigate the spread of the virus and, of course, to protect our health and the health of our neighbors. We are already in line with yesterday’s directive; as previously communicated, the Seminary campus is not open for faculty and staff to work from their offices.

The PCHE presidents (think CMU, Pitt, Chatham, etc) and deputy secretary of education for PA plan to be in touch at least twice weekly for the foreseeable future. I’ll share additional information as needed.

Thank you for your continued patience—with your families, church bodies, fellow shoppers, medical community, and the world—as we all navigate together these uncertain times. Let us “be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Rom 12:12).

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

The Seminary’s Coronavirus Response Team met via Zoom again yesterday and talked through additional procedures and topics related to the Seminary’s ongoing work during this time of campus closure. Updates are as follows. As always, contact Jim Downey at 412-924-1450 or Click to view e-mail with questions or concerns.

• CAMPUS ACCESS
  • As you’re aware, the Seminary campus is closed at this time. In the event that faculty and staff need to access their office to retrieve books, files, or other materials, please note the following policy. Access to campus will only be granted for brief periods of time.
  • Faculty or staff to e-mail his/her respective VP requesting access to office.
    • The subject line of e-mail should be REQUEST FOR ACCESS.
    • Include Tom Hinds in “To:” and Tom Fulton in “Cc:”.
    • Include expected arrival time.
    • Include estimated departure time.
    • Available access hours will be 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
    • Access will be limited to employees only.
  • Faculty or staff will contact Campus Security when they arrive on campus.
  • Campus Security will meet faculty or staff and open door for access.
  • If access has not been pre-approved, the following emergency procedure will be allowed once:
    • On second or later attempts, faculty or staff will be denied access.
    • Once all have responded, Tom Hinds will call Campus Security cell phone to authorize access.
    • Faculty or staff to send text messages to respective VP, Tom Hinds, and Tom Fulton.
  • Campus Security will check office 15-30 minutes after estimated departure time and ask faculty or staff to leave if he/she is still there.

• MAILROOM ACCESS
  • If students living on campus need to retrieve mail or packages from the mailroom, note that at this time the mailroom is accessible 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
  • Please contact Dan Holmes in the mailroom at 412-924-1392 in advance. Dan will provide access at the breezeway ground floor door.
  • Remember that the remainder of Long Hall remains closed.

• WORKING REMOTELY
  • Don’t forget that we have a number of tools available so you can work remotely and connect with others.
    • To host a video conference/conference call:
      • Log in via Okta: https://pts.okta.com or https://pts.zoom.us using your ID/Password
      • Request a Zoom account if you do not have one, only if needed.
    • To access Skype for Business:
      • For VPN users: Nothing, no VPN required – only Internet.
      • For RDP users: Use as you usually would.

• PAYROLL AND WORK-SUPPORT
  • The Business Office is prepared to continue to process all Seminary payrolls. Specifically, regarding our part-time employees and work-support students here’s what you need to know: 
    • The most current pay is scheduled for Thurs., March 19, and will be in respective bank accounts Thursday as usual. 
    • For the very few people who have live checks, the Business Office has sent you an e-mail asking your preferred method to receive the live check – pickup or mail. 
    • As a reminder, the Seminary strongly encourages direct deposit as the most efficient way to receive pay. 
    • Part-time employees will be paid their average calendar YTD pay hours for as long as the Seminary is closed. Individual supervisors/Cabinet members have the specifics if needed. 
    • Work-support students will be paid for 10 hours per week, or 20 hours in a two week pay period, as long as the Seminary is closed or until students have reached their max allotted hours for the school year.
    • It is no longer necessary for part-time employees or work-support students to clock in and out of Paycom. This will be the case as long as the Seminary is closed. 
  • Monthly payroll that will continue uninterrupted as well. If you have concerns or questions, please reach out to Tom Hinds. 

• OF PARTICULAR INTEREST TO STUDENTS
  • By the end of the week, students will receive more information about classes (e.g., how to access course materials, whether any syllabus or assignment changes will occur, and additional details about available services to help minimize the disruption of wifi service).
  • For those who may need to apply for emergency Swart Funds, please know that these checks can be processed during the campus closure.  

• ON-CAMPUS RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS
  • If an on-campus resident experiences symptoms of COVID-19, please contact your healthcare provider and alert Tom Hinds at 412-924-1369.
  • Security has a number of temperature strips available, which can be used to monitor one’s temperature for 48 hours. Contact Security at 412-889-2208 if you need a strip.
  • Also, if you’re experiencing symptoms, please do not accept visitors to your residence, even family members. Security is able to pass along care packages/supplies/etc. that may need to enter/exit your unit.

• ADJUSTING TO OUR “NEW NORMAL”
  • All of us also need to make time for self care. The CDC shares the following information:
    • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the virus repeatedly can be upsetting.
    • Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Pray. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs.
    • Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
    • Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

We need to create a “new normal” for ourselves. The next two weeks (or longer) will be even more difficult if you don’t create a routine. It’s important to set times for working and times for self care as well as maintaining normal sleep and eating patterns. If you get into a rhythm, work and study is easier, and this event will be a lot easier to manage. Students, if your courses are asynchronous, I recommend that you continue to study during your normal class and study times.

Let’s continue to extend grace to members of our community who are juggling family schedules as they also are managing work responsibilities.

Thank you all for your extraordinary efforts in this extraordinary time.

David Esterline, President

Dear PTS Community,

Following guidance from Allegheny County officials and in an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the Seminary campus is closed effective Tues., March 17 for a minimum of 14 days. So what does a campus closure mean?

• OUR COMMITMENTS
  • Although the campus will be closed, we are committed to continuing our mission of teaching and learning. As planned, online classes will begin March 23. Ongoing IT support will be available for students and faculty as we switch to this alternative learning environment.
  • Employees will be paid. Hourly employees and work-support students will be paid for hours they typically would have worked during this time period.
  • Safety and security continue to be our priorities. Throughout the campus closure, guards will be on-site and answering the security phone number. As always, call them if you need assistance. 412-889-2208. Additionally, facilities will ensure that common surfaces are disinfected.
     
• CAMPUS SERVICES
  • The library is open for PTS students, faculty, and staff until 7:00 p.m. tonight (March 16). It will then be closed to all patrons until further notice, including 24/7 space access. E-books, online subject guides, and electronic databases are available for the PTS community, and limited chat reference will also be provided. For more information, visit the Library’s website.
  • Food service will no longer be available, starting March 17.
  • The Museum will remain closed.
  • Overnight guest campus housing is now closed.
  • Mail service will continue, at least for the time being, with limited hours.
  • Tenant organizations will not be allowed to use their campus offices as of March 17.
  • The Seminary’s residence hall and apartments will remain open. However, residents are asked to minimize time in common spaces. For residents in Calian, Anderson, and McMillan, laundry room access is limited to one person at a time. For those in Highlander, laundry access is limited to no more than two people at a time. In Fulton, laundry access is limited to one person per laundry room at a time.
     
• WORKING REMOTELY
  • Employees are now required to work from home. Those who are not able to complete their duties remotely (e.g., facilities staff) will still be compensated for your usual hours.
  • Standard badge access to the buildings will be disabled during this time.
  • You’ll find attached a helpful guide for employees working remotely about how to access various tools and services. Contact IT with questions.
  • Once you leave the campus today, employees are not permitted to return to campus during the closure. So remember to take any needed computers, books, or other supplies. In the event of a needed and rare exception, contact your Vice President, who will work with Tom Hinds to make arrangements for you to retrieve additional items but not to stay and work from campus.
  • For those on campus today, please remember that at this time the CDC is recommending social distancing, which means putting at least six feet between you and others.
  • Please understand that limiting access to campus helps to reduce the chances of the virus being introduced to our Seminary community.
     
• OF PARTICULAR INTEREST TO STUDENTS
  • Faculty continue to prepare to shift teaching to online instruction following Reading Week. Students will hear more about what this means for individual classes before the end of the week. We’ll also make support sessions available this week for students who would like to test their connectivity and online access before classes resume. Recognizing the likely demand for significantly increased Internet connectivity on campus, the Seminary is acquiring additional services to help minimize the disruption of wifi service. Assisting PTS students in accessing course material is among the Seminary’s top priorities as we shift to this online and alternate learning environment. Keep checking email throughout the week for class related information.
  • The Bible Content Exam will be offered in an alternative format to allow you to take the exam from off campus. Further information will be forthcoming.
  • At this time, the PCUSA Ordination Exams still will be offered online. Biblical commentaries will be made available through the Library’s website. We’ll share more information in the days ahead.
     
• PROTECTING YOURSELF
  • Be sure to follow the CDC’s guidelines about how to protect yourself from COVID-19. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water; avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are sick; stay home when sick; cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and dispose of tissues in the trash; and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • If you think you may have symptoms, call your healthcare provider and also alert the Seminary. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
  • If you’re considering personal travel during the next few weeks, please reference the CDC guidelines and understand that a self-quarantine may be required upon your return home. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-in-the-us.html
  • Read more the CDC about managing anxiety and stress. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html

Contact Jim Downey at 412-862-7156 or Click to view e-mail with questions or concerns.

We are reminded in Philippians 4:6, “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Please continue to pray with me.

David Esterline

Dear Seminary Community,

Much is changing quickly as the world continues to face the spread of COVID-19. The Seminary’s leadership met again today to consider the newest developments related to the coronavirus and to decide best steps for moving forward as an institution. The team will meet again next Tuesday, after which we will share additional information as needed.

• ONLINE LEARNING
  • Faculty are continuing to prepare to teach online and there will be more communication coming early next week.
     
• ON-CAMPUS WIFI
  • Recognizing the likely demand for significantly increased Internet connectivity on campus, the Seminary is acquiring additional services to help minimize the disruption of wifi service. Assisting PTS students in accessing course material is among the Seminary’s top priorities as we shift to this online and alternate learning environment. Additional information will be available in the days ahead.
     
• MEETINGS ON CAMPUS
  • As previously communicated, there will be no meetings on campus of more than 10 people now through May 31. This means all meetings, including faculty meetings, board committee meetings, Institutional Effectiveness, and so on.
     
• EMPLOYEES WORKING FROM HOME
  • As this situation continues to affect more and more organizations (including school districts across the state), we understand that employees may need to work from home now and through the coming weeks. We also understand that your children will likely be at home with you. Please know that we encourage you to do what is best for your family. Be sure to discuss your situation with your supervisor. And be sure to test your hardware and Internet connection to ensure that you can work remotely!  
     
• INTERCULTURAL LEARNING SUMMER TRIPS
  • The Seminary has canceled the Intercultural trips to Netherlands and Peru this summer and the Intercultural/Experiential Learning class (MI-310). While we regret having to cancel the trips, we are doing so to protect the health of our students and the global partners and communities we had planned to visit. Given the spread of the pandemic and given international travel forecasts, it would be irresponsible to send students where they could become exposed to the COVID-19 virus, where they could expose others, or where they get find themselves unable to return to the U.S. due to increasingly interrupted international air travel.
     
• METZ UPDATES
  • You may have noticed that earlier this week that Metz made a number of adjustments to their food service procedures. Metz is being diligent in their steps to providing the safest and most effective service that they can. At present, we expect the café to remain open through March 27.
    • Metz will continue to follow the NRA Serv-Safe Standards and will follow any notices in accordance with the CDC guidelines. Proper handwashing procedures and proper use of single-use gloves will continue, and sanitation will be maintained by all employees under these guidelines.
    • A hand sanitizing station is located outside of the café. Guests entering Kadel Dining Room are asked to wash their hands at the nearby restroom or to sanitize their hands upon entering the café.
    • All self-service stations have gone to full service, still giving many options for customers. Metz will still operate the soup station, now from the main plate station. The salad bar is located where the deli station was. Pre-made sandwiches will be available for purchase as well.
    • All bulk silverware has been removed and replaced with individually wrapped plasticware.
    • Trays and chinaware will not be used until further notice; only disposables will be utilized for customer safety.
    • Customers will now insert their own payment cards, with Metz employees using gloves while ringing in transactions.
    • There are no refills on fountain beverages and no personal water bottles or mugs at any self-serve beverage and coffee station.
    • Any catering must not have more than 10 guests attending. All food items must either be served to the guests (rather than self-serve buffets) or all food items must be individually wrapped.
       
• MEETINGS FOR AFFILIATED GROUPS ON CAMPUS
  • There will be no meetings on campus of more than 10 people now through May 31.
  • Additionally, the Seminary will not offer these groups any services—IT, facilities, or catering. Our crews are currently focusing their attention on ensuring that Seminary’s academic mission can continue with minimal disruption.  
  • Affiliated groups include 1001 New Worshiping Communities, Board of Pensions, Christian Associates, Kerygma, Metz, Open Hand Ministries, Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute, Renaissance Church, and Pittsburgh Leadership Foundation.
     
• GUEST HOUSING
  • Overnight guest housing in Calian Hall remains open at this time. If and when that situation changes, we will let you know.
     
• CHECK PROCESSING
  • A number of check requests may have been submitted prior to the Seminary suspending events on campus. Please note that the Business Office may need to confirm check requests before processing them as it’s possible that the request is no longer needed.
     
• PERSONAL TRAVEL
  • As a reminder, if you participate in personal travel, please follow the CDC’s guidance. Be aware that you may need to self-isolate for 14 days upon return. As of today, the CDC requires you to self-isolate if traveling from or through China, Italy, South Korea, or Iran. Cruises are also not advised at this time. If you return home and are experiencing coronavirus symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider and alert the Seminary.
     
• WELLNESS REMINDERS
  • If you have symptoms of the coronavirus or are otherwise feeling unwell, stay home! Contact your healthcare provider, and let the Seminary know.
  • Clean your hands often. Avoid close contact. Stay home if you’re sick. Cover coughs and sneezes. Wear a facemask if you are sick. Clean and disinfect. Read more from the CDC.
     
• CARING FOR OTHERS
  • In times like these, it’s more important than ever that we care well for ourselves and for our communities. To that end, if you are more proficient at using the Seminary’s learning management system than other students, offer your service to them. If you have more cleaning products than you need, offer some to your neighbors. Our students have already created a private Facebook group to offer assistance. Follow the link or search for “Neighbors for Mutual Aid.” Use the space to offer and request rides or assistance, and to share supplies or labor.
  • Pray for our Seminary community. Pray for those who are sick. Pray for tired healthcare workers around the globe. Pray for ministry leaders as they navigate unknown and anxious times. Pray for government leaders here and abroad as they respond to this virus.
     
• QUESTIONS
  • Please direct all questions and concerns to Jim Downey (Click to view e-mail or 412-924-1450). This communication method will help us understand the community’s concerns and make sure that our responses are consistent across the institution.

With thanks to all for your patience and understanding as we continue to work through this situation.

David Esterline, President

Dear Seminary Community,

We continue to monitor closely the COVID-19 outbreak, commonly known as coronavirus, and to provide updates based on the latest information and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and state and local public health officials.

The impact of COVID-19 has caused the Seminary to take unprecedented steps to balance our educational mission with the duty to protect the health and well-being of the Seminary community, our neighbors, and vulnerable populations. While there is no confirmed case of COVID-19 on our campus or in Pittsburgh, we feel that we should do everything we can to limit the spread of the virus as well as protect the health of our Seminary community and our neighborhood. To this end, we will implement new policies based on social distancing strategies that health experts recommend.

The following measures will be inconvenient, even disruptive to our campus. I ask for your cooperation so that the health and safety of our community remains our top priority in this rapidly changing context.

• MOVE TO ONLINE AND ALTERNATIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
  • Starting March 23, 2020, and continuing through the end of the academic year, we’ll move to remote, virtual, or alternative teaching and assessment.
  • We remain committed to student success. Though the instruction format is changing, faculty will conduct classes to meet course objectives and deliver required content, even if assignments take a slightly different shape.
  • Faculty have already begun to prepare for this transition to online learning; Reading Week will provide additional time to adjust to operating in this different learning environment. We will manage the transition to online platforms with as little interruption as possible.
  • Students who leave campus for Reading Week may decide not to return to campus housing.
  • If leaving for the break, please take all essential belongings, medications, and materials from the campus. A local or on-campus confirmed case of the virus would likely dictate the need for further changes to campus life—up to and including closing the Seminary.
  • We urge you to exercise caution and judgment if you are planning any domestic or international travel during the break. Please take into account the possibilities of travel delays and required self-isolation upon return.
  • I recognize this is a disheartening step to have to take. The decision to depart from the in-person educational and residential experience that we value so highly was not made lightly. I am especially sensitive to the disappointment our graduating students may be feeling, as you lament the loss of the campus experience during your last semester at the Seminary. We recognize this impact, and we feel your sadness as well.
     
• SEMINARY REMAINS OPEN, SOME SERVICES CHANGING 
  • At this time, the Seminary remains open. Staff members are expected to report for work. Employees deemed at-risk by the CDC should communicate with their supervisors and Human Resources to determine if a remote worksite is feasible.
  • In the event that the Seminary would have to close for a period of time due to the coronavirus, the Seminary is committed to paying hourly employees and work-support students for missed time. 
  • We will not have in-person meetings for groups of 10 or more. This includes staff and faculty meetings. Consider how you might use e-mail or web-based meetings or conference calls instead.
  • The cafeteria will remain open through March 27, at which time we’ll reevaluate this decision. Metz has initiated precautionary adjustments in the dining hall. Self-serve items and stations will be altered to help ensure your health and safety. Additional information will follow from Metz.
  • Calian Residence Hall and the Seminary’s apartments remain open.
  • The Library will remain open (standard hours) for PTS employees and students. We ask that you not gather in groups of 10 or more. PTS badge entrance will be required now through May 31, 2020.
  • After today (March 12), Chapel services are canceled for the rest of the academic year.
  • The Museum will be closed to all visitors and tour groups.
     
• EVENTS AND MEETINGS
  • Beginning March 16, all Seminary-sponsored events both on- and off-campus have been canceled through May 31, 2020. Decisions about commencement (May 29) and the Henderson Summer Leadership Conference (May 31-June 3) are pending. Refrain from planning future gatherings until further notice.
  • Externally-sponsored meetings and events are also canceled through May 31, 2020. The Seminary will not accept new requests for campus space until at least June 1.
  • We are asking all departments and campus groups to suspend on-campus meetings for groups larger than 10 or more participants and/or shift to a virtual meeting whenever possible.
  • As a reminder, social distancing is strongly encouraged in all settings. As defined by the CDC, social distancing means avoiding mass gatherings and maintaining a distance of six feet from others.  
     
• PTS TRAVEL
  • We are suspending all Seminary-sponsored domestic and international travel now through the end of the academic year unless it is pre-approved by me or Dean Heather Vacek. This includes faculty, staff, and students.
  • As previously announced, any PTS student or employee returning to the U.S. from a destination with a CDC travel health notice of level 3 (China, Italy, South Korea, and Iran) must self-isolate for 14 days prior to returning to the Seminary campus.
     
• HEALTH REMINDERS
  • Remember to wash your hands with soap and water to help prevent the spread of germs.
  • If you feel unwell, stay home.
  • If you have symptoms of the coronavirus (cough, fever of 100.4 or higher, and shortness of breath), contact your healthcare provider and alert the Seminary.
     
• UPDATES, ENCOURAGEMENT, AND THANKS
  • As the COVID-19 outbreak evolves, we will continue to keep you updated on new developments and changes. Please check your PTS e-mail regularly for the latest information; you can also find complete details on the Seminary website.
  • The coming days and weeks will bring questions and uncertainties that we need to resolve together. The cabinet and key Seminary leaders are working quickly, thoughtfully, and prayerfully to plan our best course of action, taking into account the many impacts our decisions will have; we will communicate regularly!
  • In the midst of all of this I encourage you to pray. Pray for those more immediately impacted than we are, pray for those who are frightened, pray for our public health workers. And pray for our community and for yourself—for faith and courage and for an abiding sense of God’s peace.
  • And I encourage you to care of those around you, especially those who are more vulnerable—for whatever reason. Be the good neighbor we often talk about. Reach out—using, of course, the most appropriate technology. Our support for one another, and our support of those not in our community but need our friendship and help, will surely build our own faith and courage.
  • Many thanks to every member of the community for your patience and cooperation. We have faced challenges before with care and calm, and I know that we will pull together again as we care for each other.

Grace to you, and peace.

David Esterline, President

PTS Community,

The COVID-19 situation continues to be fluid and many people have questions. In this note we update you on the latest protocols, decisions, and recommendations.

As we respond to the continuing challenge of this virus, please know that we are committed to the safety and health of the entire community, ensuring the integrity of the academic experience, and providing helpful and supportive guidance to the Seminary community.

Reports this afternoon indicate there are ten presumptive cases in Pennsylvania, though none are in the Western PA area. Since we communicated with you last via e-mail about this topic, here is some new information and some reminders:

• SELF-ISOLATION POLICY
  • As of March 9, the Seminary has implemented an official policy that any PTS student or employee returning to the United States from a destination with a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel health notice of level 3 or higher must self-isolate for 14 days prior to returning to the Seminary campus. Individuals returning to the United States from a destination with CDC travel health notice level 3 must return to their homes or similarly suitable locations as a protective measure for themselves and others. If you have any questions, please contact Tom Hinds. The following destinations remain under a level 3 travel health notice from the CDC: China, Italy, South Korea, and Iran. The Seminary continues to monitor CDC travel health notices for any changes. Please understand that we are not alone in this line of thinking; several local colleges and universities also are limiting access to their facilities.
     
• PERSONAL TRAVEL
  • Recognizing that we’re quickly approaching Reading Week and that folks may choose to travel during this time, the Seminary encourages you to monitor travel advisories. Depending on your destination, you may have to reach decisions to change or cancel plans to ensure your wellbeing and timely return. In many countries, entry and exit control measures could change, and even quarantines implemented, with little notice. These actions could severely impact your plans and/or delay your return home with personal cost. Per the CDC, the Seminary recommends being aware of your health status when making decisions regarding travel. Individuals most at-risk are those with compromised health systems. If you have a temperature or respiratory illness, consider your options with your primary care provider.
     
• REPORTING SYMPTOMS
  • Individuals should continue to monitor for symptoms and contact their primary care provider if any occur. Again, we urge everyone to practice preventive behavior. If you are showing signs (cough, fever of 100.4 or higher, and trouble breathing), please 1. stay home, 2. contact your primary care provider, and 3. report your condition to your supervisor (for employees) or Dean of Students (for students). When reporting your symptoms, your supervisor/Dean of Students will ask the following: What are your symptoms? Have you contacted your primary care physician or other medical professional concerning your condition? Have you been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19? Have you traveled internationally and if so, where?
     
• EXTERNAL EVENTS ON CAMPUS
  • In an abundance of caution, the Seminary is no longer accepting new requests from outside organizations to host events on our campus until a point in the future that’s TBD when the spread of the virus is no longer an international health concern. Events already scheduled will occur unless and until further spread warrants reevaluating this situation.
     
• PTS-SPONSORED EVENTS ON CAMPUS
  • At this time, the Seminary will continue to offer our many on-campus events. If and when it becomes evident through CDC or Health Department advice that events gathering large groups of people need to be canceled, we will let you know.
     
• EMPLOYEES WORKING/TEACHING FROM HOME
  • Employees, please be sure to test your remote access to ensure that you’re able to work/teach from home if the need should arise. Please contact IT with any questions regarding access.
     
• INCREASED CLEANING PRACTICES
  • Our maintenance crew will continue to increase their cleaning practices including, disinfecting common spaces and making hand sanitizer and wipes available.

The Seminary continues to keep the security and safety of our students, employees, and campus as our top priority. We will continue to share updates of new and relevant information or policy developments. Please consider what you can do to help protect yourself and others and to contribute to the spirit of cooperation necessary at this time.

During times such as these, it is also important to take time to reflect on how we treat one another when we feel vulnerable and scared. At education campuses across the country, students who are from or who are perceived to be from countries with high rates of COVID-19 are being targeted for hostility. In addition, students and others who have recently traveled overseas, regardless of where they are from, also have found themselves subjected to stigma. At Pittsburgh Seminary, it is on each of us to make sure that such behavior does not happen here.

We are aware that any decision we make will satisfy some members of the community but not others. We ask for your continued patience as we work through this unprecedented situation—one that is affecting colleges and universities across the globe, not just Pittsburgh Seminary. 

Please join me in praying for guidance and wisdom for our community and the world as we face this challenge together.

David Esterline, President

As COVID-19 (commonly known as the coronavirus) continues to spread around the globe, please know that the Seminary is monitoring this rapidly changing situation and putting measures into place to protect the well-being of our community. In addition to regular e-mails, you’ll find complete info (including a record of previous e-mails) on the Seminary’s website: www.pts.edu/coronavirus. Here’s an update of the Seminary’s work since we e-mailed the community last Friday.

PTS has established a Coronavirus Response Team, co-led by Jim Downey and Tom Fulton and including Tom Hinds, Melissa Logan, Heather Vacek, and John Welch. This group will meet to regularly consider new information available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and Allegheny County Health Department. To learn more about the virus (protective measures, symptoms, news, etc.), visit any of these websites.

Members of the Committee have met with local college and university reps to better understand other institutions’ response to the virus. The PCHE schools are actively sharing resources.

The Committee met Wednesday afternoon to review a number of next steps and contingency plans. Topics included facilities-related issues (review of sanitation products and processes, ordering of needed supplies, steps for cleaning affected areas if needed, and how to handle a campus shutdown); academic planning (teaching remotely, attendance policies, IT redundancy, and making e-books available); and general operating procedures (employees working from home, overnight housing, events on campus, and international travel). These are ongoing discussions, and needed decisions will be made and shared with the Seminary community if the situation warrants action. We will follow the directives of the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Reminders:

• You can prevent the spread of disease by washing your hands (20 seconds with soap and water), not touching your face, and staying home when you’re sick.
• We all have a role to play in helping to prevent the spread of disease. For people in the “medium risk” category, the CDC recommends practicing “social distancing”—remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding local public transportation, and maintaining distance (approximately six) from others. Learn more on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/risk-assessment.html.
• There are no known cases of the coronavirus in Pennsylvania.
• If you think you may have symptoms (fever, cough, and shortness of breath), follow the CDC’s recommended protocol: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html.
• While there is no need for panic, we recognize that some members of our community may be anxious about this situation—for themselves, for loved ones, or for affected people around the globe. Students, remember that PPI counselors are available on campus. Non-Board of Pensions employees, don’t forget that mental health professionals are covered by our insurance. For folks not in these groups, contact a member of the Coronavirus Response Team, and we’ll be happy to assist you in finding needed resources.
• Please pray. Prayer settles hearts, gives direction, creates empathy, and prayer changes things. Pray for those who are sick. Pray for those who are afraid. Pray for those who live in places with no access to health care. Pray for public health officials.

Dear PTS Community,

As you’ve heard in the news, countries around the world are facing a growing number of Novel Coronavirus cases, now known as COVID-19. In an informational brief dated Feb. 24, the Western Pennsylvania Hazards Fusion Center wrote, “Coronaviruses are a type of common virus that can infect the respiratory tract and spread much like cold viruses. Almost everyone gets a coronavirus infection at least once in a lifetime. The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) emerged in Wuhan, China, and began infecting humans in December 2019. Since this is a new coronavirus, it means that people do not have immunity to it, and it is causing an outbreak of respiratory illnesses.”

As of this morning, there are 60 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.: 42 are former passengers on the Diamond Princess cruise ship, the site of a recent outbreak and quarantine; three are Americans recently repatriated from Wuhan, China, the center of the outbreak; one patient contracted the illness through unknown means; and most of the other 14 patients either had recently been to China or are a spouse of someone who recently returned from China. At this time, there are no known cases in Pennsylvania.

Please know that the Seminary (along with other local colleges and universities) is monitoring this rapidly changing situation. We are regularly reading the latest news, updating our operational contingency plans (academics, IT, and facilities) out of abundance of caution, and discussing any needed action(s) during weekly Cabinet meetings.

Right now the CDC is reminding people that the best defense against any virus is to wash your hands regularly with soap and water; avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are sick; stay home when sick; cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and dispose of tissues in the trash; and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. You will see new hand sanitizer stations around campus.

We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated as needed.

David Esterline, President