MBT In-person Attendance Policy & FAQ

Updated December 10, 2023

The Midwest Buddhist Temple is announcing its updated attendance policy for all events and activities that happen at the Temple.

We continue to take precautions to protect our entire Sangha and friends who utilize the Temple facilities. As a Shin-Buddhist Temple, collective compassion is at the center of our religious practice. We ask all who intend to visit to adhere to the following policies.

Attendance Policy:

• Attendees are strongly recommended to be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (with applicable booster shots) as recommended by the CDC and/or your healthcare provider. To reduce uncertainty regarding vaccination guidelines follow this link to view the CDC website: CDC Covid-19 vaccination guidelines.

• Masks are now optional but are strongly recommended. Areas where masks are still required include all Dharma School classrooms for children over the age of 2. MBT recommends the following masks: N95, KN95, KN94. Surgical masks are also acceptable.

• In the spirit of collective compassion, please do not attend an in-person event at MBT if:
  • You currently feel sick or show symptoms of Covid-19.
  • You have tested positive for Covid-19 in the past 10 days.
  • You have come into contact with somebody who tested positive for Covid-19 in the past 5 days.

Please remember:

• Masks are required in all Dharma School classrooms for children over the age of 2.
• We recommend the use of hand sanitizer.
• We recommend the continued practice of social distancing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Will MBT continue to live-stream Sunday service?

Yes, details will be provided in MBT’s weekly email.

• Do I need to pre-register to attend in-person service?
  

No.

• Do I need to bring proof of vaccination or have my temperature checked?

No. 

• Do I need to bring proof of a negative test result?

No. 

• Is there a limit to the number of people that can attend an in-person service?

No. Volunteers may request that you attend service from the social hall depending on the number of attendees.

• Will windows be open in the Hondo during service?

Weather permitting we may open windows in the Hondo. 

• Can I do oshoko?

Yes, please maintain appropriate distance when you are waiting in line to do oshoko.

• Can service books be used?

Yes.

• Can attendees chant and sing?

Yes.

• Can we gather and chat in the social hall after service?

Yes.

• Will eating or drinking be allowed in the social hall?

Yes, eating and drinking are allowed in the social hall. Masks are now optional (but are still required in Dharma School classrooms for children over the age of 2.) 

• Will the restrooms be open?

Yes. Please maintain social distancing.

• How often will the temple be cleaned?

As normally scheduled, 1x/day.