During our regular Session meeting this morning (Friday, Mar 13, 2020) we discussed the situation thoroughly, consulting the advice from the Presbyterian Church in Canada and other credible sources.  We made decisions related to Public Worship, Annual Meeting, Mission Activities, and Book Study.

Public Worship:  Public worship will go ahead as planned on Sunday morning beginning at 10:30am.  Decisions for subsequent services will be made on a week to week basis.

Annual Meeting:  The Annual Meeting will be held immediately following the service of worship – provided that there is quorum.  If there are not enough people, the meeting will be delayed until a future time when it is safe to do so.

Mission Activities: The Meal and a Game with a Prayer event scheduled for Tuesday March 17^th has been cancelled.

Book Study:  The Tuesday evening book study is cancelled for next week.  Decision to hold additional sessions will be made on a week to week basis.

Our primary consideration is the health of the congregation and ensuring that everyone is safe.  We recognize that although the current risk of contracting the virus is considered low in our region we are very conscious that there is an increased risk of more severe outcomes from COVID-19 for Canadians:

• aged 65 and over
• with compromised immune systems
• with underlying medical conditions

Given the risk to many in our congregation, we request that if you have any signs or symptoms of Covid-19 – fever, cough, shortness of breath – that you would not attend worship.  Additionally, we request that if you have travelled outside Canada, you monitor your health for fever, cough and difficulty breathing for 14 days after you arrive in Canada.  If you have these symptoms, please contact your doctor.

Session is concerned that all members of the congregation are supported during this time of increased social isolation.  In this vein we would encourage everyone to keep in touch with each other.  A phone call for a chat will be welcome medicine for anyone who is unable to get out of their home.  Additionally, if anyone is unable to get basic necessities – including food or medications – please reach out to your elder or the Rev. Pat so that we can support you during this time.

With Blessings

Reverend Patrick Gushue