General News and Announcements

November 6, 2009

News and rumours abound about the H1N1 virus. What about its impact on congregations and public worship?

Local public health units are the best source for local facts and information. They can provide guidance on what you should do in the event of a serious outbreak and may in fact issue public warnings about gatherings of large groups. They are also an excellent source for educating others on precautions to take to reduce the spread of the virus.

Here are some things to consider about church life in particular:

Do we need to change our Sunday worship?

Shaking hands, passing the peace, the common cup—contact, contact, contact! In every instance, there is an element of risk. Recently, some United Church ministers shared what they have implemented in their own congregations. The traditional passing of the peace has been replaced with a sideways hug or individuals clasping their own hands together and bowing. Shaking hands with congregants at the end of the service has been discontinued in some churches. Intinction has been temporarily discontinued during communion in other churches.

For more information, see the following:

• Being Faithful during Cold and Flu Season [PDF: 2 pp/73 KB] outlines other suggestions for adapting worship.
• H1N1 flu virus check list for congregations, released by the National Council of Churches Health Task Force, lists precautions to take.

Should we cancel special events we have planned?

If schools are cancelling field trips, it may be wise not to hold the annual youth retreat. If the public health unit is cautioning against large gatherings, consider whether you should go ahead with the turkey dinner or annual bazaar. Ask these questions:

• Will postponing this event have a negative impact?
• Will holding the event pose a health risk to our community?

Finding the balance between need and risk will help you make the right decision.

How do we offer worship if we can’t hold Sunday services?

Emerging technology offers alternatives for the technically savvy. For those who are less technically inclined or have limited access to technology, here are some alternatives:

• Do you have a prayer chain that can pray at a set time each day?
• Do you have a regular Bible study reading list that people can use without meeting face to face?
• Does a local radio or television station broadcast a Sunday service?

Also consider who might fill in if the minister, organist, music director, or worship committee chair is sick.

Should we stop pastoral visits to the hospital and those sick at home?

While visits from the minister or pastoral team are welcome to those who are ill or unable to get out, these visits may also be a potential risk for the visitor and the people being visited. Hospitals and nursing homes may set their own rules. At home, undertake visits with an understanding of the potential risks. Being diligent about hand-washing or using hand sanitizer is essential. If the person who usually does the visiting is ill, he or she should not visit in person. A phone call to check in with people and provide support is one alternative.

For more information, see the following:

• Breaking the Chain [PDF: 2 pp/37 KB] gives suggestions that may be useful in planning pastoral visits.
• Emergency Planning has additional resources and links to help congregations and community ministries.

Take the time now to consider how you might continue to provide faithful ministry in the event of a widespread outbreak.

In partnership,

• Bev Oag
  Duty of Care and Incorporated Ministries
  Tel: 416-231-7680, ext. 4094
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781, ext. 4094
  E-mail: Duty of Care