Sunday services have not yet been cancelled, but this is very likely to happen in the near future, across the diocese.

We will need to spend some time considering how we can continue the mission of the church without regular gatherings for a time. Phone calls, emails and other distance communication can help us keep in contact. When visiting in homes, hospitals and in public, it will be very important to wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and be especially careful about physical contact if you or others around you are sick or if you have travelled recently.

Remember that this virus can spread before a person has any symptoms of illness. It can live on surfaces for hours or days and very easily go from there to your hands, to your face. Even though some people may only develop mild symptoms, this virus is deadly for many, especially those who are older and those with underlying health issues, especially respiratory issues.

We all need to be serious about protecting one another, and especially those most at risk. We need to remember to look out for our neighbours who may become more isolated because of these kinds of precautions. How can we bring one another the joy and comfort of social contact without also accidentally bringing them a dangerous virus? Slowing down our busy schedules and spending more time at home may give us the extra time we need to think up creative ways of showing love for one another in this exceptional and difficult situation.

Here's hoping everyone takes this seriously enough that we slow the spread and can get back to a normal routine sooner rather than later."