The Team met on March 13th to discuss possible actions. However, we quickly realized this was not a planning meeting but a call to action. Earlier that day, Dr. David Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer recommended the immediate suspension of all gatherings over 250 people because of the pandemic. Realizing, that to keep our vulnerable (immune-compromised) and elderly population safe and to help reduce the spread of COVID 19 the Team needed to make some prudent decisions. It was determined that the church be closed until further notice, including suspending regular Sunday morning worship. All staff and renters were advised they were not to be in the building with the exception of the two custodians. Of note, this decision did not pertain to the ongoing building renovation as this would be a determination to be made outside the purposes of the Team. That said, on April 6th the provincial government announced the shutdown of many non-essential construction sites, including Leaside United Church, for a minimum of 14 days.
The United Church has provided guidance and it is apparent each church has chosen their own path as to what is appropriate for their congregation. The Team continues to meet as new medical and governmental directives are announced. Since the initial actions, we have amended the position regarding caretakers and currently all staff are requested to stay at home with the exception of a regular walk around, by a caretaker, of the premises for insurance purposes. The Team continues to monitor the pandemic to provide direction in these extraordinary times.
At the last Council meeting (April 30th) the attached guidance document PROPOSED Model to Reopen Leaside United Church was shared with attendees to provide insight into criteria and required actions as it pertains to reopening the church building.
With thanks,
The COVID-19 Team of Leaside United Church