*COVID-19 Correspondence 4*

May 30th, 2020 It’s been 2 months since we gathered virtually through zoom. As we have entered the 2nd phase of this pandemic with partial re-opening of some businesses and the partial returning of students to schools, perhaps some of us may wonder, when will we be going back to re-gather at church. For those who are extroverts and who are younger in age, they may be more ready and keen to go back to church. But be mindful that even if we return it will be a new normal. We have discussed among pastoral staffs the different possibilities for the present stage and the days ahead. Will we be able to host everyone if we plan for a third worship service? How many can we sit in the hall with social distancing? Who and how can we do all the sanitation and enforce the hygiene procedures? Will we still have children program at the initial stage? How would we do communion and offering? And many other practical questions?

Making the decision to stop gathering in person was tough back then in March. But it’s not as simple and easy to just say, let’s re-open on a certain date now. A lot of practical issues need to be addressed. We know that COVID is not over and there may always be a threat of a 2nd wave, like what happened in New Brunswick and Korea. As God’s people and responsible citizens, we want to live with Godly wisdom and at the same time be submissive to civil authorities. So with the guideline from our BC government which is still holding onto gathering under 50 people, it is quite impossible for us to re-gather for worship in person until the situation changes. For the sake of unity and other practical issues, we still hold onto this decision for both CM and EM. As for all small groups, the situation will be discussed at the small group leaders gathering this coming Sunday afternoon. If all the criteria of sanitation, social distancing can be met and all small group leaders are willing to take the responsibility, we will bring this up for further discussions at the board on June 7. At this stage, we don’t recommend gathering at people’s home for small groups or praises. This relate to the issue liability and risk management as a church. In the meantime, please pray for all those in leadership for unity and wisdom in the decision making; and to have all the protocols and practical steps set up before we re-gather. Also pray for love, joy, peace, patience, kindness …and all the fruit of the Holy spirit. Continue to meet through zoom. Practice the spiritual disciplines of scripture reading, meditation and prayer while at the same time practice social distancing. Let us learn to cease striving; (Psalm 46:10) be still and put our hope in God (Psalm 131:-2-3).

(Psalm 46:10) “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” 

(Psalm 131:2-3) But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother;like a weaned child I am content. 3 Israel, put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore. 

Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. Gladys Lee Tsang