Dear Family

The situation regarding Coronavirus is changing by the hour.  (For example, VGH has sent a request to all health workers to avoid public meetings so that they do not become infected and pass the virus on to at-risk groups).  At this time it seems wise to err on the side of caution as we figure out what to do. 

We are therefore cancelling our Sunday Service tomorrow (March 15th) and putting all other gatherings on hold (including home groups, morning prayer, etc).

We will spend time this coming week to assess and plan so that we can be fully prepared for whatever we choose to do. 

ANiC's web staff have sent out information on how to set up live streaming and St John's has offered to help any church that needs it. 

We will therefore be able to do whatever is needed to be responsible in the coming weeks.  Andy Crouch has written a good article about how churches should respond to the pandemic. 

Izumi pointed out that saying the Lord's Prayer is a good way to time the 20 seconds recommended for hand washing. 

If you have spare hand sanitizer or face-masks please let us know so that we can factor in options on how best to celebrate communion with due care. 

We may also need extra help with sanitizing high use areas and surfaces. 

Whenever you enter the church (or gather with friends), please immediately go to the washrooms and wash your hands when you arrive.  Also, remember to maintain social distance (1m or two-arms' length) and try to use your elbow rather than hand to push doors open or press down handles and buttons.

As always, remember that God is always with us and he is our shield and defender.
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."  (Psalm 46:1)

In His grace
Pastor Geoff