Letter to the parish re. the pandemic

Dear friends,

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Last night, I returned from one week of study leave at the Theopolis Institute in Birmingham, Alabama. I had a wonderfully rich and edifying experience and will have more to share with you about it in the weeks ahead. 

For now, I want to address the coronavirus pandemic:

• As I have just returned from international travel, tomorrow I will consult with Peel Region Public Health to determine whether I should self-monitor or self-isolate for 14 days (I have read conflicting reports on this). I am not currently exhibiting any symptoms and was careful to practice proper hand hygeine and precautions, especially while in airports.
• All public worship services and church meetings at St. James are cancelled until further notice.
• Pending approval from Peel Public Health, I plan to pray and livestream the Daily Offices of Morning Prayer & Evening Prayer this week from Tuesday-Friday at 9:00am and 4:00pm. I will ring our church bells before each service to announce that prayers are ascending from our church 'In the Heart of the Village.' I invite you and all members of the community to join me in prayer from your home. Prayer resources and devotions will be posted on this Blog and on our Facebook page.
• This week, I plan to check-in with everyone on our parish list via phone, giving priority to the elderly, shut-in and sick. If you are not in one of these categories and would like to talk to me, please contact me via email (cdldow@gmail.com) or phone (226.200.0422).

In this unprecedented and tumultous situation, with so many throughout our world shaken by fear and uncertainty, we remember the words of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is our cornerstone, solid rock and sure foundation: 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. (John 14:27 ESV)

Peace,

Chris