Dear Siblings in Christ,
In a few days we will mark two years since our regular church routines were first disrupted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In those earliest days, we committed ourselves to doing whatever was necessary to love and care for our neighbours by protecting their health and wellbeing. It hasn’t always been easy, but we’ve done just that! I am so proud of how our church has responded to these unprecedented challenges.
While the risks associated with COVID-19 remain, we are beginning to see wonderful signs of hope in the world all around us. Restrictions are lessening, mandates are ending, and we can look forward to resuming some of our most cherished activities and traditions.
Across our Synod congregations are returning to in-person worship, we are cautiously planning for some physical meetings and gatherings, hymns are being sung again, and we look forward to enjoying those long-awaited sips of coffee during fellowship hour. Be assured that our ability to do each of these things is a direct result of the collective efforts which have guided us through these past two years.
To that end, I would encourage continued caution as we enter this ‘endemic’ phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our commitment to the health and safety of our neighbour remains. These acts of love have guided us thus far and will continue to mark our ministry as we move into the weeks ahead. Please continue to adopt a measured approach, follow the guidance provided by local public health units, and gauge the comfort level of your congregation. Regarding the removal of mask mandates in some areas of our Synod, I would encourage all congregations to continue using masks for the time being. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. I, and my colleagues in the Synod Office, are eager to support you as you resume in-person practices.
We have learned a lot over these past two years. I am inspired by the resiliency and determination shown by our church! The Good News has been, and continues to be, proclaimed with a profound clarity. God is with us.
Thank you for your faithfulness.
Thank you for your creativity.
Thank you for your partnership in ministry.
May God be with you today, and always!
Bishop Michael