Statement attached at bottom of page.
Bishop John Chapman has issued a revised statement on the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), including guidelines to be observed in all congregations of the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa effective immediately. As these guidelines affect our worship life, as well as pastoral care, please take the time to read the full statement from Bishop Chapman attached below.
Here is a brief summary:
- The use of the Common Cup for Holy Communion has been suspended by the Bishop until further notice. The Presiding Celebrant (Priest) will consecrate both bread and wine during the Holy Eucharist, and receive in both kinds, but only the bread will be administered to the congregation.
- “Contact-free” exchanges of the Peace and greeting are now mandatory. Hand-to-hand contact and other forms of contact are to be avoided before, during and after worship.
- The passing of offering plates from person-to-person is now prohibited.
- Please continue to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds; also use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Those involved in the administering of Holy Communion will wash their hands with soap and water before and after the service, and liberally use hand sanitizer before assisting.
- If you are ill, please do not attend church.
- Please openly address all fears, prejudices and anxieties about COVID-19, and help God to create caring and calm.
We recognize that these guidelines represent a significant change in our communal life. If you have any questions about anything contained in the guidelines provided by the Bishop's Office, please speak to a member of the clergy team.
In addition, the Diocesan website now has a dedicated page to updates on COVID-19 in our diocese. Find it here.