covid-19 update

We are mindful that this is a time of great concern for all of us physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

We have been prayerfully considering how we are to respond to this pandemic, and how we are to be a source of encouragement, hope, and faith within this community of faith.

We believe the Church is not a building (that is. a brick and mortar facility).  We believe that the Church is a people, finding their identity, faith, hope, and relationships in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, in light of this pandemic, and under the directives of governmental and medical officials, and their recommendations, we will suspend all in-person gatherings and meetings, which will include our Sunday Morning Worship Service, effective immediately.

In any instance, here are some practical recommendations below.

physical distancing

Healthcare professionals and agencies recommend a 2-arm distance between individuals wherever people will be present.  We encourage this practice whenever you find yourself among others.

greeting and social contact

While some really enjoy greeting with hugs and handshakes, we strongly recommend you exercise restraint.  Rather than hugging and handshaking, why not a friendly wave, or a simply verbal greeting, respecting a healthy 2-metre (approx. 6-foot) distance?

hand sanitizers

Even though we won't be meeting at Waverley in the building, we do have a limited number of dispensers, and will have them available in areas such as the foyer, the Sanctuary, the Fellowship Hall, the WAVEkids and Little Ripples Rooms, the Main Office, and by our front and rear entrances.

please note:

• As much as possible, do wear a mask to cover your nose and mouth whenever you go out.

• If you are at higher risk of vulnerability (i.e. older adults, people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, lung disease), or a compromised immune system due to medication, we encourage you to consider staying home.  Do ask for assistance should you require groceries, medications, or other essential supplies for home.

• If you are not feeling well (i.e. any symptoms of cold or flu) or have traveled outside Canada in the last 14 days, stay home and follow the recommended steps given by the government health agencies.

Toronto Public Health recommends the following preventative measures:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, ear canal, and mouth
• Avoid close contact with people who are ill
• Avoid contact with people who are more vulnerable to this virus (eg. elderly, individuals with a compromised immune system)
• Stay home when you are ill
• If you are ill, and displaying any of the symptoms, contact your doctor for screening
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the garbage and wash your hands
• If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

For more information, please visit the City of Toronto’s website.