Greetings to you, our family of churches!
As we learn more about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and its global spread, we are calling all churches to respond as a resource to our communities with diligence in readiness, earnest prayer and the opportunity to bring hope. Let us all be mindful of those who have experienced loss, who are fearful of infection and for those being treated for COVID-19. Let us also be in prayer for all who are providing care and medical attention to those affected by this outbreak.
We are reminded in Psalm 46:1 that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. As the Church, we are called to provide compassion, care and love to those in need. In these moments, we have great responsibility and great opportunity to serve our communities.
As you exhibit responsibility and wisdom in the decisions you and your church face in your community, please be assured of our prayers for you, your leadership and your congregation. Please give full attention to the Government of Canada, the provincial Ministry of Health (Ontario, Quebec), your local municipality health department and the recommendations they make regarding public health, corporate gatherings and on-going monitoring of the coronavirus pandemic.
CBOQ staff are monitoring the coronavirus pandemic and its impact so we can make informed decisions during this uncertain time. Because CBOQ exists to serve you, our member churches and leaders, we want to learn from you regarding your response to the pandemic and to provide resources for you.
If your church hasn’t yet made a contingency or pandemic plan, please refer your church’s leadership to this resource from the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College helpful. As well, we have attached a statement we support from the Canadian Council of Churches that calls us, as the Church, to respond with compassion and community during this time.
We want to let you know that plans continue for CBOQ Assembly this June 11-13. The spread of COVID-19 is an evolving situation. We will work actively with our CBOQ staff and Board to make sure that we prepare for the meeting in ways that maximize the health of all who participate, and we will communicate actively about measures we put in place.
Strength, health and peace to you,
Tim McCoy, Executive Minister
Melody Currier, Director of Communications and Member Care
Need help explaining coronavirus (COVID-19) for kids? Check out this video!
