A note to the Commons community as we hear about the ongoing COVID-19 sickness:

At Commons, we continue to listen to medical professionals and public health leaders so that we can accurately adjust our behaviour and practice to match the reality of risk to our public health. At the same time, we reject any sense of panic, fear, racism, or stockpiling of supplies, all of which damage public health and run counter to the Christian story. Chinese-Canadian, Asian-Canadian, and persons who have travelled abroad have already experienced mistrust in the city, and this is not something we can accept.

Keep in mind that COVID-19 is not thought to be especially aggressive or deadly, although it does spread through surface contact (not airborne). Therefore we are doubling efforts to keep the church facilities clean and ask that you practice smart hygiene, washing hands thoroughly, avoid touching your face while at church, and staying home if you are experiencing a cough or fever. We have an incredible number of volunteers at Commons, and if you are scheduled to volunteer but are feeling sick, simply let your team lead know, and we will find a replacement for you.

For the next period of weeks, we will be asking our greeters to offer waves instead of hand shakes at the door, and we will be making some adjustments to our procedures for the Eucharist during this period.

We are excited to see you this Sunday and every Sunday, but we also want to ensure that we are caring for each other well.

If you are wondering how you might respond with the peace of Christ in this season, perhaps you could keep an eye on those you know who are most at risk. This could include neighbours who may struggle to access health care, friends with weakened immune systems, or those who are struggling with housing or poverty. Watch out for each other, pray for those more vulnerable than you, consider how you might respond by calling and checking in on older neighbours.

Grace and peace.