Dear Friends,
I want to update you on Cassowary Coast UC’s response to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic and the steps we are taking to mitigate the risks, and to ensure as a church family we continue to model the faith, hope and love that is at the heart of the gospel.
First, what are we doing.
We are closely monitoring and following advice from government, health and denominational authorities, and will continue to do so. Information from Queensland Health and Queensland Synod is posted at all churches and on our website and Facebook pages.
We are providing hand sanitizer and encourage you use these on entering and leaving our venues, and to wash your hands thoroughly at other times.
We have reviewed our communion preparation and serving protocols in preparation as directed by our Synod. We will be using individual cups and bread pieces.
We are continuing with all of our current programs and activities, including weekend worship, and will continue to do so until we are advised otherwise.
Second, what risk-mitigation efforts are we asking of you.
If you are unwell, in particular if you have cold or flu like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat etc.), please do not attend any church activity until you are well again. Seek medical advice.
If you have recently returned from overseas from a region or country where the Australian government requires a 14-day quarantine (currently Italy, Iran, South Korea and China) please comply with that advice.
Restrict hand to hand contact at gatherings (we will remind of you this during welcome times), and use sensible precautions when in closer proximity to others.
Thoroughly wash and/or sanitise hands regularly.
Third, let me talk about our opportunity in this unprecedented and challenging season.
This pandemic is a serious global crisis that we all must take seriously, and do our part to slow. Having said this, while we need to be wise in minimising the risks to ourselves and others, we also are not governed by fear. God’s perfect love casts out all fear (1 John 4:18).
In and through Jesus we also have a hope that is imperishable (1 Corinthians 15:42).
Together, with our words and by our actions, let’s model the gospel hope we have.
How?
Pray for those who are infected with the virus – for their healing.
Pray for our world and our nation – that the pandemic would slow and halt.
Pray for our health care and other professionals at the frontline, including many in our church, for safety and strength.
Pray for our state and national leaders – for wisdom. And pray for those whose livelihoods which have already been impacted by the economic fallout – for provision. As you are able, I encourage you to attend any of our three church’s regular prayer gatherings.
Care for one another and for those God has placed your world. Together, lets model the love of Jesus and the hope we have in him.
We will keep in touch with you regarding any further developments as necessary.