Covid-19 (revised March 27, 2020)
Dear TUMC Community:
Some of you have expressed concern about worship services in light of COVID-19.
We are following public-health guidelines as we continue to be community for each other. All face-to-face meetings are cancelled until the end of April. We will keep you informed as alternate plans develop.
If you didn’t see a “TUMC Connects” this week, please check your e-mail “junk” or “spam” folder, or contact Mike to get added to the list. We are using this to stay updated more quickly during the COVID19 crisis..
Remember public health advice. Wash your hands often and thoroughly. Avoid touching your own face and other people. Stay home if you think you might be contagious for any kind of illness. (see this graphic from CBC news)
This is also an opportunity to remember that panic is not a spiritual practice and that the Bible warns us against hoarding. As people of faith, we know that we depend on God and on each other through times of crisis. We are still called to live out our values of mutual care under these circumstances.
Let’s stay tuned to anyone who might be vulnerable and in need of a phone call or an extra meal at this time. Or if you are the one in need of practical assistance (extra meals, financial support, etc.), Caring Team can try to help arrange for that.
Finally, remember that prayer is contagious in all the right ways.
Pastors Michele and Peter (in wide consultation).
Toronto Public Health: https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/diseases-medications-vaccines/coronavirus/
Mennonite Church Canada Pandemic preparedness: https://www.mennonitechurch.ca/outbreakresources
Sunday April 5: Palm Sunday
WORSHIP THEME: LENT: Show us how to balance celebration and grief
We will not gather at the church. We are now sharing the links to our online meetings through our e-mail announcements. Contact Mike if you’re interested.
10:00 online On the Way Café
John F-E. plans to host via Zoom.
Pandemic, Passover and Passion: How do our story of the pandemic and the passion of Jesus intersect?
11:00 online Sunday Gathering
Anita T. is Worship Leader for a Sunday Gathering via Zoom. Trent V. will offer a meditation.
Scriptures: Psalm 118: 1 – 2; 19 – 29; Matthew 21: 1 – 11
6:30pm Facilitated Conversations
Seeking God: Finding Wholeness facilitated conversations, on the 3rd floor.
From September 8 through the end of June: Worship service begins at 11:00 am.
From September 8, 2019 through June, 2020:
* Christian Education begins at 10:00 am;
* Worship Service begins at 11:00 am;
* Informal coffee and fellowship in the lobby at 12:30 pm.