November 25, 2020
Dear parishioner and friend of St. Olave’s,
This past Monday, the Government of Ontario initiated a 28-day, 10-person limit on church services. The Wardens and I have been considering how best to proceed under these new restrictions. Given the alarming growth in infection rates, we have decided to voluntarily cease in-person services, effective immediately, and continuing past Christmas and into the new year. There is no way to predict what the situation will be at the end of the 28 days, but we feel our resources are best allocated to offering rich online programming. Our Christmas services will be recorded and posted on our YouTube channel and to our website.
There are some exceptions to this new protocol, including baptisms, weddings and funerals. If the need arises, we are still prepared to offer these services in the church building. But as has been mandated by the government, only 10 people or less will be present and all the safety protocols will be followed.
At this point, we don’t know when we might be able to resume in-person worship services. We will continue to monitor the situation and when larger gatherings are allowed by the government and the Diocese, we will consider reopening following the required safety protocols. Until that time, we will continue to offer opportunities for fellowship, learning and worship using Zoom, Facebook and YouTube.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or one of the wardens. Alexandra and I continue to pray for you all during Morning and Evening Prayer Tuesday to Friday (you can pray along with us at facebook.com/stolavesevents or on our website). We look forward to the day we can gather together again.
Yours in Christ,
The Reverend Rob Mitchell, Rector