COVID & Congregations

Friends,
This past week a close friend contracted COVID, was hospitalized in serious condition and is now in the care of a convalescent hosputal on a long road to recovery. It appears the virus has affects on people that are very individual, creating unknown vulnerabilities for some. I pray for continued awareness of one another as we enjoy limited personal interactions.
 
In January, none of our Mission Centre congregations were gathering in person. I thank you for your understanding of our current provincial health standards. As we head into Feb, reaching somewhat if a peak in COVID hospitalizations, I ask that every congregation examine their local health authorities' recommendations before choosing to reopen. 
 
We all by now know the protocols of masking, spatial distancing, no singing, limiting social time and how to celebrate sacraments. We have a collective wisdom from experience. We also have individual choice about our own attendance or to continue to be together in the variety of excellent on-line services, fun events and sharing groups that are offered locally or widely across the church.
 
Again I would emphasize there is an unknown vulnerability factor for every person. Some experience minor symptoms and some severe. Age, immunity and health are all factors. 
 
If a congregation chooses to reopen under extreme caution, please let me know by emailing me at kerry@communityofchrist.ca. This allows us to be aware of gatherings, perhaps what we can learn from your experience and who we can contact if further cautionary developments emerge with this dynamic virus.
 
I pray with deep passion for a final conclusion to this devastating virus. How we all desire to resume our lives albeit with the wisdom of new insights. Through our journey we have new understandings of "what matters most". May we discover the blessings that transform us through these times. In the Spirit that abides always.....
 
With Meaning,

Kerry Richards

CEM President