The Anglican Church has announced the temporary suspension of all public worship services, effective today. (Sunday)
"Gathering as a people of faith is important, but God also summons us to seek the welfare of the cities in which we live and move and have our being. This extraordinary measure is consistent with the measures put in place by other civic institutions within our province, in an effort to impede the transmission of the coronavirus from person to person," according to a news release.
"While it comes at a cost, this sacrifice is offered out of a deep and abiding love for our neighbours, particularly those who are most vulnerable to severe repercussions from a COVID-19 infection. Each diocesan bishop will enact further measures that are appropriate for their particular ministry context and unique circumstances.
Plans are in place for online prayer and worship resources to be posted on the website of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario.
The ecclesiastical province covers most of the geographical province of Ontario, and parts of Quebec.
"As your metropolitan, I encourage you, my dear friends in Christ, to find creative ways to stay connected to God and one another during this time as we continue to observe a holy Lent, through fasting, albeit of a different and unexpected kind; unceasing prayer, and generous almsgiving," says The Most Reverend Anne Germond.
