Sunday March 15th, 2020 – Worship Service Cancelled due to Coronavirus Pandemic Measures Taken

March 14, 2020

To: All Officers and Employees

RE: COVID-19 Communication #3

Greetings in the name of Christ,

As we continue to monitor developments and note how quickly things are changing regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, we are providing this Communication #3 as an update to our message of yesterday afternoon. With new directives being provided by Ministries of Health, Public Health and local municipalities, it has been decided that all worship services for tomorrow, Sunday, March 15, are to be cancelled. This is deemed to be a necessary response to the ongoing developments with a confidence that it is the right and caring decision to make at this time. Some corps officers may feel it would be appropriate for their people and community to remain open for those who may wish to have a place of sanctuary and personal prayer. If a corps decides to do so, they should follow all directives previously provided and as updated by the Public Health. Our social services that are supporting others in our communities will continue, ensuring that the utmost care is taken and that they are consistent with the Public Health directives.

Although we will not be gathering for worship, we continue to embrace the call to be a people of prayer and compassion for ourselves and our community. In our private devotions and prayers with others in our families, pray for those directly affected by the COVID-19 virus, especially the sick and those who serve in the health care professions. We encourage corps officers and local leaders to find ways to connect with members of their corps and congregations, recognizing that some will miss the opportunity for fellowship and encouragement in such a time as we find ourselves. We will continue to monitor the developments and communicate regularly in the coming days.

May God bless his Salvation Army around the globe in these days, that we might fulfil his purpose to bring blessing to others, Giving Hope Today, when it is needed most.

Thank you for your sensitive pastoral leadership to our people and in our corps and communities. Blessings.

Sincerely,

Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd
Territorial Leaders, Canada and Bermuda