February 19^th 2021

Brothers and sisters of St. Andrew’s,

At our Session Meeting on February 16^th we decided that in order to continue to keep our congregation safe, our building would continue to remain closed for physical worship on Sunday mornings and our small group ministry would continue to remain online only.

We know that under the Ontario Government’s Reopening Framework the red zone allows us to open up to 30 % capacity for worship, but we are also aware that outbreaks are ongoing in Simcoe to the south and that North Bay & Parry Sound to the north and west continue in a lockdown position.  This was a difficult decision for us to make.  We know that this will disappoint some of you, while providing relief to others.

Let us remember, in Paul’s words:

               ^“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it” (1 Cor 12:27). 

We are aware that this is a very difficult time for many of us as we struggle with Pandemic fatigue, and ongoing loneliness. Please continue to call one another, and pray for one another. Continue to use the new Blessings Ministry as a way of expressing your deep love and commitment to one another. We are Christ’s Body and we need one another, even if we cannot physically gather.

As we continue to keep our services and small group ministry online, please know that our prayer chain is always available, our office will remain open for communication by phone and email, and Pastor Timothy and our staff will remain available virtually as you need us.

We pray that the Lord will continue to guide our Session as we prayerfully discern what is best for our congregation going forward. We will be reviewing our decision at the Session meeting in March in time for the Easter Season (should we feel that we are in a better place at that time).

Peace,

In Christ alone,

Pastor Timothy