We are living in unprecedented times, and while we are doing our best to care for the community with live-streaming on Sundays and new digital gathering spaces throughout the week, we also have to adapt to the unfortunate reality.

While we are all feeling the social effects of COVID-19 many across our community are also feeling the economic impact. The church is no different. We continue to be overwhelmed with gratitude for those who continue to give faithfully as they are able, and for those who have shifted their giving online during this time. If you are able, head to www.commons.church/donate for information about online giving.

However, with all rental revenue gone and donations feeling the effects of the pandemic on the community, we have been forced to make changes to our staffing levels.

We have committed to paying all hourly staff, as if they were working, for the four weeks starting from our shut down on March 15. Unfortunately, on April 15, we will be laying off hourly staff. Also, all remaining staff will be taking temporary salary reductions beginning April 1.

The Canadian government has announced supports for those affected by COVID-19, and we will be working to ensure our staff are able to access the available resources. We hope the extended notice we have been able to provide will help to bridge affected staff until government support can arrive. We are still providing benevolent support to those in need, and this will include any of our staff impacted.

As our board chairperson, Stuart McGibbon, communicated to the staff this week, “Some very difficult decisions have had to be made over the last week. These decisions have not been made lightly, and they will help ensure the long-term viability of our community as we demonstrate financial responsibility to a community who are also hurting during this time.

I know that my words do not lessen any feelings of hurt or uncertainty. If you find yourselves in difficulties during these times, please reach out to both Jeremy and I, and we will do all that we can to support both you and your families.”

We are doing our best to manage a volatile situation where things are changing very quickly. Still, we trust that we will return to the level of ministry our community has come to expect once this season passes.

Please pray for the broader community, for the church and our leadership as we navigate this moment, and for those team members impacted directly by these decisions.

Grace and peace.

jeremy

Jeremy Duncan | Lead Pastor
Commons Church