Update from COVID-19 Response Team [July 26, 2020]

Dear brothers and sisters:

We hope and pray that you are staying well, healthy and safe during this pandemic.  Since our last update on June 14, as far as we know, due God’s mercy and protection and to your diligence in following infection control guidelines, none of our church attendees have been infected with Covid-19.  In our last update, we listed the requirements for coming to the church for our stage 1 (live streaming of worship) and stage 2 (in- person prayer meetings) reopening of the church.  In the past month, none of the congregations have yet started coming back to the church.  These requirements will continue until we update them.

We are now in the process of determining the details of the next steps in reopening (stages 3 to 6 in the previous update).  Everyone will be sent a survey on how everyone sees reopening through their group leaders.  Please complete the survey so that we can know everyone’s viewpoints and expectations.  We value each of your inputs.  The results of this survey will have major influence in our reopening plans.

The City of Toronto has put forth specific guidance for the reopening of churches.  

https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/covid-19-reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-guidance-faith-based-organizations/

Many new procedures, processes, jobs and structures concerning safety, infection control and possible contact tracing will need to be put in place by our church to adhere to these guidelines.  It will take a lot of time for the committee to work out the details with church staff.  It will require a lot of planning, organizing, manpower and help and cooperation from church members.

Your continued prayers would be appreciated.

If you have any comments, suggestions, feedback or questions, please contact us through info@gcgcny.org.

Grace and peace,
Covid-19 Response Team
July 26, 2020