Covid 19 Update [2022-07-18]
Update from the GCGCNY Covid-19 Response Team, July 18, 2022.
Dear brothers and sisters:
Wishing everyone God’s peace and grace amidst the difficulties we are facing in the pandemic.
Thank you for following all public health guidelines to control Covid-19. Thank you to everyone who have worked faithfully so that we could re-open for in-person meetings.
We are concerned along with every one about the 7th wave of Covid-19. The Omicron BA5 variant is one of the most transmissible viruses known. We are thankful that just as we expected, although there are many infections, most people who got the infection are not severe enough to require hospitalization.
In view of the increase in Covid-19 infections, we are implementing mandatory masking with a 3 layer medical grade mask or KN95 or N95 mask for every one >2 years old entering the church. The masks can only be removed during sports and eating. For groups leading worship, we require 2m distancing and highly recommend but not require wearing mask unless behind the Plexiglas. It is recognized that singing, sports and indoor eating are activities associated with a higher risk of Covid-19 transmission. People participate in these at their own risk.
Vaccinations still offer the best protection against getting Covid infection especially severe infection. We highly recommend that everyone get up to date on their Covid vaccination. At this time, those >18 years old are eligible for 4 doses. In the next week or so, vaccinations for those 6 months old to 5 years old will be available.
Unfortunately, with Omicron BA5, one can get re-infected as soon as 2 months after an infection. One can also get infected as soon as 3 months after getting full vaccination. So please do not let your guard down.
If you were exposed to Covid or have any symptoms, please take this [self-assessment] which will tell you what to do:
If you have Covid or is a close contact, please follow these guidelines:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-what-you-should-do/
We will continue to monitor the course of the pandemic in the GTA closely and give further guidance as needed.
Church facilities are available now for booking for ministry use. We will consider opening church facilities to approved community partners starting Sept, 2022.
Except for the above, all other guidelines from March 1, 2022 remain in effect.
Peace and grace,
GCGCNY Covid-19 Response Team
TK – team lead and representing the church Board of Directors
Rev Chan – representing the church staff
Sylvia – representing the English congregation
Queenie – representing the Cantonese congregation
Edwin – representing the Mandarin congregation
Felicity – representing the Children congregation