June 21, 2021 Update

June 2, 2021

A note from Anne Yates-Laberge, Executive Director.

Hi everyone,

Over the past few months, our leadership team and the board have developed a phased re-opening plan that aims to resume in-person worship in September. As you know, the provincial government recently announced a summer re-opening plan with a much more accelerated approach. After careful consideration, we have decided to stick with our original plan and aim for a September re-opening.

By then we're hopeful that the COVID numbers will be lower, more people will be vaccinated, and we will have more information overall. This decision also aligns with the Chinook Winds Region, which encourages churches to consider careful plans for re-opening.

Our number one goal is a safe community. Our responsibility is to act with an abundance of caution, ensuring that our re-opening is not premature. We consulted congregant and board member Dr. David Keegan, who also advised waiting until at least September to re-open. When we come back, we want to hug, sing, and be close to one another, safely.

Another consideration for returning in the fall is so that our staff can have some much-needed downtime. Our leadership team and staff have been working full steam ahead for the past 15 months. To be successful in one of our busiest times of year — fall, Advent, and Christmas — our staff must have time to rest, play, and be with family this summer. Our Ministry and Personnel Committee and board strongly support this.

I know I can speak for all our staff when I say that we MISS you! I am longing for the day that the sanctuary will be full of energy again. Making these types of decisions is NOT easy, but know that we do so thoughtfully and with the health and safety of our community as our main priority. Thank you for your understanding and support.

BIG virtual hug,

Anne Yates-Laberge
Executive Director