Dear Communities of Faith and Ministry Leadership,
As the information from the BC Ministry of Health and WorksafeBC continue to evolve regarding guidelines and best practices during COVID-19, the PMRC leadership will continue to provide relevant updates on our website and to our email lists.
UNITED CHURCH RE-OPENING DOCUMENT UPDATES
PMRC Pandemic Recovery & In-Person Ministry (Re) Launch Guidelines:
The July 2020 Information is not a stand-alone document, and should be used in conjunction with the June 2020 document.
- July 2020 Information to augment Version 3 (Full Colour) (Text Only)
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June 2020 Version 3 (Full Colour) (Text Only)
The United Church of Canada Reopening Churches during COVID-19: here.Â
BC GOVERNMENT UPDATES
WorkSafeBC has released an update of their information “Faith-based organizations: Protocols for returning to operation”, website link here.
As previously said, COVID-19 is far from over. While our physical distancing has flattened the curve, there are still infections and even deaths occurring. Those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19 are in the majority in our congregations, and as such, we need to approach our return to in-person worship with caution. Dr Henry, our chief medical officer, has given us the opportunity for small gatherings, but has reminded us that we have a significant duty of care, and advocates that we do not take unnecessary risks. We are a people of faith, and like the disciples, we are called to trust that God is leading us as we make decisions about how to gather as the Body of Christ.
The PMRC Pandemic Recovery & In-Person Ministry document and updates offers both concrete steps for safety and health, as well as critical questions to help you consider what ministry in the next phase of COVID-19 will look like. Thanks to Kathy Davies and Tressa Brotsky for their work on this project. We will continue to update this document as new information becomes available. Presently, I am seeking further clarification on the topic of singing safely.
In the words of Bishop Karen P. Oliveto of the United Methodist Church: “I do not want one single case of COVID-19 traced to one of our churches because we did not care for those whom Jesus loves.”
As always, your Regional Council staff are available for consultation and support.
Blessings,
Treena Duncan, Executive Minister
