Dear People of St. James’,
I have received a number of emails and texts from parishioners concerned about the Coronavirus (Covid-19). Some were anxious for friends or relatives in China and South Korea; others worried about our own practices of welcome, embrace, and communion at St. James’.
I would like to take a moment to invite you to prayer:
God of hope and healing, we pray for those affected by the coronavirus: for its victims around the world, for those who care for them, for health specialists and authorities who are dedicated to fighting the spread of infection, for the economic victims of the disease, and for those who are fearful. Give us wisdom in this time of uncertainty and compassion for our brothers and sisters in our human family. Help us to avoid the kind of fear that leads to stigma and hard-heartedness. May we stand as witnesses to your healing and life-giving power in this time and every time. Amen.
The World Health Organization has declared that the emergence of Coronavirus (Covid-19) is a public health emergency of international concern. This enables resources to be targeted at countries which have a vulnerable public health infrastructure. The risk to the public in the US is currently set at low, and there are currently fewer than 50 cases in the US. Your diocesan and parish leadership will keep listening for updates and making contingency plans.At this time, we do not see a need to make changes to our practices of welcome, embrace, and communion. Here is a summary of current guidance:
- As at all times, we ask you to listen to your bodies, and if you are ill, seek assessment from medical professionals and take measures to limit exposure to others.
- We ask eucharistic ministers and clergy to use hand sanitizer following the peace.
- Remember that if you feel vulnerable to illness or worry that you might be getting ill, it is alright to receive communion “in one kind” (i.e. just the bread).
- We ask you to stand against fear and injustice with compassion and welcome, especially for members of our Chinese American community who have reported experiences of prejudice in recent weeks.
Historically, Christian communities have set themselves apart through their courageous care for the vulnerable during times of crisis. May we not forget who we are in the face of fear.
The Rev. Eileen O’Brien Rector
