The Fruit of the Spirit:
As a community we seek to reflect the character of Jesus. At the end of his letter to the church in Galatia, Paul writes that this character includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control.
As you read through our COVID protocols, remember that above all else, it is our calling to treat one another according to these Godly characteristics. Let’s be kind, patient, and good to one another in these uncertain times.
Specific Guidelines:
1. Gatherings are limited to < 50 people
Because we are a church that includes over 200 congregants this means that all of our in-person gatherings will require signing up in advance.
2. Gatherings require physical distancing
A minimum of 6’ (or 2 metres) of distance will be maintained between congregants from different households. Observing this guideline is a practical way of us being kind, patient, and faithful.
This means that we will not be able to greet one another with our customary handshakes or hugs. But guys, air fives are super cool.
Certain exceptions aside (e.g. washroom break), congregants will need to remain at their seats at all times.
3. Those who have travelled internationally are asked to stay away from physical gatherings and remain connected virtually for 2 weeks after their return to Nanaimo.
If you have not travelled but a close contact of yours has, this same guideline applies.
4. Congregants with cold or flu symptoms including, but not limited to: runny nose, cough, sneezing, and/or fever are also asked to stay away from physical gatherings and remain connected virtually. This includes those with mild symptoms.
This will be challenging—particularly as cold and flu season arrives. We are used to “pushing through” mild illness–however during the COVID era we should err on the side of caution and remain home.
5. We are required to keep a list of attendees for all church events for 30 days.
When you arrive at an NC event, a member of the welcome team will record your name and phone number for contact tracing purposes.
6. Wearing a mask while singing is mandatory
All attendees aged 2 and older will be required to have a mask which must be worn during the singing portion of our services. Mask use at other times is welcomed but not mandatory.
7. We have adopted best practices for our building
We have designated entry/exit doors, hand sanitizing stations, we will run our exhaust fans, and when weather allows, we will keep our windows open. We will have one washroom open available for use.
8. No Sharing of Food or Drinks:
Sadly there will be no sharing of food or drinks at our services or church events. You are welcome to bring your own coffee or tea with you to our services.