Covid19
As you have already heard, the Covid19 virus was labeled a pandemic this week. That definition from the World Health Organization is “the worldwide spread of a new disease”. The BC government today stated that the risk is still low, but the spread rate is unknown as they are still learning more about Covid19. The government has also recommended that gatherings of over 250 people be postponed and rescheduled.
What does this mean for WestWinds? Well, as of today we will still have our regularly scheduled Sunday services at 10 am. If the province changes those rules, we will abide by the government’s restrictions.
In the meantime, below are some measures we would like you to be aware of and are implementing at WestWinds…
1. If you are feeling ill, please stay home until you are better.
2. When greeting in the foyer and sanctuary please greet each other with a smile, a wave and with a distance of one meter.
3. We are not partaking in communion for the month of April and will reassess this as things move forward for May. We will still have a time for reflection and prayer in the service.
4. The prayer team on Sunday mornings will be postponed as well. If you are in need of prayer, please talk with one of the Pastors and we will gladly arrange that for you after the service.
5. If you are not able to attend a Sunday service our sermons are available online in video or on podcast audio at www.westwindschurch.com under the teachings tab. Each sermon will be posted online by midnight the next day.
6. Also, it is very important that no matter where you are, please wash your hands and refrain from touching your face as this will assist in stopping the transmission of the virus to you and to others.
7. And as we all know, cough or sneeze into your elbow.
8. Until further notice, there will be no coffee or snacks in the Coffee Connections room before the service until the virus declines. As well as meetings that involved serving and preparing food are to be postponed until we get further updates from the government.
As I am not one for panic and fear (2 Tim 1:7), I would ask that we all remain calm and remember that the purpose of the church is to be a light in this world (Matthew 5:14-16). Yes, we are to protect our families and take care of them, but we must also remember to do everything with the mindset that we are representatives of Jesus Christ. Our actions and attitudes are to mirror Him (I John 2:6).
Please be in prayer for those that have been impacted by this virus, for those that are vulnerable, for our medical health care professionals and first responders (Fire, Ambulance and Police) as they navigate this new issue.
We will continue to keep you updated with any changes that impact our church as things are changing every day. God bless you and keep you safe,
Pastor Mark
Below is a link to the BC government website on information and updates for Covid19. Proper information helps control fear.