Our Diocesan COVID Plan 

** IMPORTANT UPDATE – APRIL 5, 2023 – Lifting Restrictions effective May 28, 2023

** IMPORTANT UPDATE – MARCH 14,  2022***

Covid Update as of March 14, 2022

** IMPORTANT UPDATE – February 21, 2022***

Covid Update as of February 21

, 2022

** IMPORTANT UPDATE – JANUARY 25,  2022***

Guidelines under modified Level 4- January 25, 2022

….Covid 19 Exposure Flow Chart

** IMPORTANT UPDATE – JANUARY 4,  2022***

Guidelines under modified Level 4 – January 4, 2022

*** IMPORTANT UPDATE – DECEMBER 17, 2021**

DOWNLOAD the latest COVID Guidelines for Worship and Gathering within the Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador

APPENDIX B – VACCINE MANDATE

Clarification on Acceptance Proof of Vaccination – October 15, 2021

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Archived Materials for historical purposes

This is the page for information regarding the Diocese and the response to the current COVID-19 global pandemic.  Check back regularly for updates.

*** IMPORTANT UPDATE – NOVEMBER 15, 2021 ***

DOWNLOAD the latest COVID Guidelines for Worship and Gathering within the Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador

APPENDIX B – VACCINE MANDATE

Clarification on Acceptance Proof of Vaccination – October 15, 2021

*** IMPORTANT UPDATE – OCTOBER 8, 2021 ***

Dear Diocesan Family,

Since the beginning of the pandemic, our Diocese has worked diligently with government and health officials to ensure our churches and worship practices are safe for all. We produced a document Many Members One Body with many updates over the past months. With the recent changes to COVID-19 regulations by our government, this document no longer fills the need for which it was written.

Attached is our new diocesan COVID-19 document entitled “The New Has Come”. Please remove/delete any references to Many Members One Body from your parish social media, bulletins, newsletters and parish communication and replace it with this new document. Please ensure that your congregations and parish leadership are aware of these new guidelines. We will continue to update you with any changes that may come from health officials.

Thank you for all you do to make our church communities a safe and healthy place for all people.

Blessings on your day,

The Venerable Charlene Taylor

Diocesan Executive Officer

*** IMPORTANT UPDATE – SEPTEMBER 21, 2021 ***

CLICK TO READ

Dear Diocesan Family,

Since the beginning of the pandemic, our Diocese has worked diligently with government and health officials to ensure our churches and worship practices are safe for all. We produced a document Many Members One Body with many updates over the past months. With the recent changes to COVID-19 regulations by our government, this document no longer fills the need for which it was written.

Attached is our new diocesan COVID-19 document entitled “The New Has Come”. Please remove/delete any references to Many Members One Body from your parish social media, bulletins, newsletters and parish communication and replace it with this new document. Please ensure that your congregations and parish leadership are aware of these new guidelines. We will continue to update you with any changes that may come from health officials.

Thank you for all you do to make our church communities a safe and healthy place for all people.

Blessings on your day,

The Venerable Charlene Taylor

Diocesan Executive Officer

COVID Update July 12, 2021

CLICK TO READ

Use of Church Property for indoor Personal (not run by a recognized business or
organization) Social Gatherings and Use of Church Property for indoor Parish run Social Gatherings


COVID Update July 1, 2021

The following guidelines will come into effect on July 1, 2021.

Increased Numbers for Indoor Gatherings

Under Step 1, indoor public gatherings will expand to 200 people in so far as physical distancing can be maintained between households (households being defined as the members of a residence plus 20 close consistent contacts). The number of “bubbles” we have allotted within our individual church buildings, as per the Many Members document, does not change, yet the number of people we can accommodate overall does increase.

Change to Pre-registration & Pre-screening

As well, the requirement for people to pre-register and pre-screen to attend services, and the restriction on drop-in attendees, will be lifted. Parishes are not required to pre-register or pre-screen people who wish to attend services, yet will still be required to compile and retain a contact tracing list of those attending any gathering within our church buildings. Pre-registering and pre-screening can still be done by those parishes who choose to do so. The following protocols will need to be adhered to by those Parishes wishing to discontinue pre-registering and pre-screening:

  1. Clearly visible at the entrance to the building by all those who would be entering should be placed signs stating that those who are, or should be, self-isolating, due to travel or possible exposure to COVID-19, are not permitted to enter the building.
  2. Those entering will be met by the Greeter(s) who will take down the names and phone numbers of those entering. The Greeter(s) will continue to ask people to sanitize their hands and provide them with a non-medical mask. The Greeter(s) will continue to point out, and ask people to make themselves aware of, the signage throughout the building, as well as offering to answer any questions people may have at this time (see page 13 of Many Members).
  3. It is paramount that the “bottlenecking” of people entering the church building be avoided. Having multiple Greeters will help alleviate this possibility. If a  lineup of people waiting to be welcomed by the Greeter(s) results, the Facilitator should ensure that everyone waiting to be admitted are physically distanced from each other.

Other than the increase in overall numbers permitted to gather (in so far as physical distancing can be maintained) and the lifting of the pre-registration and pre-screening requirement, all other restrictions, guidance, and protocols remain in effect. Mask wearing, social distancing, hand sanitizing, and cleaning protocols are still required to lessen the spread of the virus.

Should there be any questions, or further clarification needed, please feel free to contact Reverend Christopher Fowler at 699-2481 or by email at reverendchristopher@icloud.com.


COVID Update June 24, 2021

As announced yesterday by Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, all indications are that the province will move into Step 1 of the “Together Again” Reopening Plan on July 1, 2021.  Please note the following is ANTICIPATED and will only come in effect once the Government gives approval to the Province.

Increased Numbers for Indoor Gatherings

Under Step 1, indoor public gatherings will expand to 200 people in so far as physical distancing can be maintained between households (households being defined as the members of a residence plus 20 close consistent contacts). The number of “bubbles” we have allotted within our individual church buildings, as per the Many Members document, does not change, yet the number of people we can accommodate overall does increase.

Change to Pre-registration & Pre-screening

As well, the requirement for people to pre-register and pre-screen to attend services, and the restriction on drop in attendees, will be lifted. Parishes are not required to pre-register or pre-screen people who wish to attend services, yet will still be required to compile and retain a contact tracing list of those attending any gathering within our church buildings. Pre-registering and pre-screening can still be done by those parishes who choose to do so. The following protocols will need to be adhered to by those Parishes wishing to discontinue pre-registering and pre-screening:

  1. Clearly visible at the entrance to the building by all those who would be entering should be placed signs stating that those who are, or should be, self-isolating, due to travel or possible exposure to COVID-19, are not permitted to enter the building.
  2. Those entering will be met by the Greeter(s) who will take down the names and phone numbers of those entering. The Greeter(s) will continue to ask people to sanitize their hands and provide them with a non-medical mask. The Greeter(s) will continue to point out, and ask people to make themselves aware of, the signage throughout the building, as well as offering to answer any questions people may have at this time (see page 13 of Many Members).
  3. It is paramount that “bottlenecking” of people entering the church building be avoided. Having multiple Greeters will help alleviate this possibility. If a lineup of people waiting to be welcomed by the Greeter(s) results, the Facilitator should ensure that everyone waiting to be admitted are physically distanced from each other.

Other than the increase in overall numbers permitted to gather (in so far as physical distancing can be maintained) and the lifting of the pre-registration and pre-screening requirement, all other restrictions, guidance, and protocols remain in effect. Mask wearing, social distancing, hand sanitizing, and cleaning protocols are still required to lessen the spread of the virus.

Please note that the above changes are anticipated. You will be informed by the Diocese, once we have been informed by the Government, as to when these adjustments will take effect. Should there be any questions, or further clarification needed, please feel free to contact Church House or Reverend Christopher Fowler at 699-2481 or by email at reverendchristopher@icloud.com.


Update May 30, 2021: Guidelines for Outdoor Flower/Cemetery Services

CLICK FOR DOCUMENT


 

COVID Update April 23, 2021: Mask Use while on Church Property

Mask Use while on Church Property 

Individuals are required to wear a non-medical mask while on Church Property if in the presence of someone who is not from their same household or a person not considered to be one of their close, consistent 20 contacts. The only exceptions are as follows:

  1. Masks may be removed while outside. If physical distancing cannot be maintained while gathered outside, the utilization of masks is encouraged for everyone’s safety.
  2. Your mask may be removed to eat or drink, including consuming the Eucharist.
  3. An individual solo performer or speaker may remove their mask while speaking or singing provided they are at least 2 metres from other individuals.
  4. A couple receiving the Sacrament of Marriage may remove their mask for the ceremony provided they remain at least 2 metres from all other individuals. The couple must wear a mask while processing or recessing and at any time that physical distancing from others is not able to be maintained.

Although these exceptions are provided, it is strongly recommended that masks be worn, even in the above noted situations, if at all possible. Masks are a key component to your safety, and the safety of others, and should be utilized as extensively as possible.

Remember that, in indoor public settings, masks must be worn by people 5 years of age or older. Children between the ages of 2 and 4 are encouraged to wear a mask, yet it is not mandatory. Masks should not be worn on children under the age of 2 or by people with physical or mental health exemptions as specified under Government Guidance:

https://www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19/non-medical-masks-use-in-public/

Seating during Public Gatherings 

During any Public Gathering on Church Property, people from the same household, including those considered to be a part of that household’s 20 close and consistent contacts, may sit together without physical distancing.

Home Visits and Home Communions 

Visitation and Home Communion with people in their private residence is permitted in so far as it is deemed pastorally emergent and necessary in the opinion of the Cleric. The Cleric should not feel obligated to enter another person’s private residence if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe in doing so. The Cleric may only enter another person’s private residence if requested to do so by the members of that household – Clergy should not initiate such visitations nor show up to people’s homes uninvited or unannounced.

While in another person’s private residence, Clergy must remain compliant to the following:

Clergy should wear a mask while in the person’s home and maintain physical distance as much as possible;

Sanitize your hands properly prior to entering the home and upon exiting;

Avoid touching your face;

Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette;

Providing or sharing food and beverages are not permitted while conducting home visits. Sharing food, beverages, and utensils may increase the risk of transmission of the virus if it is present;

Home Communions are to be in one kind only and administered by placing it on the recipients hand without physically coming in contact with the hand. The use and sharing of a common cup are not permitted at this time;

Clergy should not conduct home visits or communions with people who are self-isolating. Also, Clergy are not permitted to conduct home visits or communions if they are feeling unwell, have travelled outside the province in the last 14 days, or have come in close contact with a known case of COVID-19.

Clergy must limit the number of home visits or home communions performed each day to the minimum number of visits or communions necessary to be pastorally responsive in a timely way to emergent pastoral circumstances within their community.

Resumption of Sunday School, Godly Play, Confirmation Groups, and other Faith Formation Gatherings for Children including CLB 

Offering of infant and child minding, is not permitted at this time. Preschool aged children should stay with their families during public gatherings.

For parishes that wish to resume Faith Formation Activities for Children, either during Sunday Worship, or as a separate, stand-alone gathering, the gathering should be adherent, in as far as it is applicable, to the Guidance provided by the Government for After School Programs: 

https://www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19/information-sheets-for-businesses-and-workplaces/recreation-and-sport-based-after-school-programs/

It is encouraged to hold such gatherings outside whenever possible, and physical distancing should be maintained in as far as possible between participants. For instances where physical distancing cannot be maintained while outside, the utilization of masks is encouraged for everyone’s safety.

Remember that, in indoor public settings, masks must be worn by people 5 years of age or older. Children between the ages of 2 and 4 are encouraged to wear a mask, yet it is not mandatory. Masks should not be worn on children under the age of 2 or by people with physical or mental health exemptions as specified under Government Guidance:

https://www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19/non-medical-masks-use-in-public/


 

COVID Update April 14, 2021: Increased Numbers for Gatherings

Dear Diocesan Family;

As was announced today by the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, as of Saturday, April 17, the maximum number of people that are permitted to gather for worship is increased to 100 people.

Gatherings

This applies to any and all formal gatherings within the Church. This includes meetings of Vestry, Parish Council, ACW, Men’s Fellowship, Bible Study etc.

Seating in the Church

As well, people may sit with their close contacts. Thus, people from the same household may share a pew with any of their 20 consistent close contacts (Steady 20) without physical distancing.

Mask Wearing

A reminder that people must wear a mask at all times while attending any gathering within the Church. Masks must be worn by the priest during the prayer of consecration at the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Masks may only be removed to consume the Eucharist. An individual solo performer or speaker may remove their mask while speaking or singing provided they are physically distant from everyone else while doing so.

The Venerable Charlene Taylor

Executive Officer

The Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador


UPDATE – April 12, 2021

Mask Wearing – Change to the Guidance Document for Faith-Based Organizations April 12, 2021

Today we have received a change made to the Guidance Document for Faith-Based Organizations regarding mask-wearing during religious services and ceremonies.

The Guidance Document now states:

An individual solo performer or speaker may remove their mask while speaking or singing provided that they are at least 2 metres from other individuals 

https://www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19/information-sheets-for-businesses-and-workplaces/faith-based-organizations/

Please note that Government and Diocesan guidelines still require the wearing of masks at all times while on church property except during the times directed in the updated guideline.  While masks can now be removed during speaking like the sermon, masks are still required during the prayer of consecration because of the high risk of droplets on or near the altar and on the elements being consecrated.

Please ensure that this new guideline is shared with those who may be a soloist or speaker/reader during any liturgy. While mask removal is permitted for these specific acts during the liturgy, it is not mandatory and any soloist or speaker/reader may continue to wear a mask if they so choose.

The Venerable Charlene Taylor

Executive Officer

The Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador


UPDATE – March 27, 2021

Effectively immediately parishes may begin the registration process for Palm Sunday, March 28.

The maximum number is 50 including clergy, organist/music, taskforce team.
Seating must be by household.

Masks are mandatory at all times including preaching, presiding, singing and sitting in the
congregation. Masks can only be removed to consume the bread at a Eucharistic liturgy.
Multiple services per day are permitted as long as there is a 2-hour space between the end of one service and the beginning of the next service. Proper cleaning protocols and ventilation of the space are necessary.

Diocesan Guidelines Alert Level 2 effective March 27, 2021


UPDATE – March 15, 2021

After further consultation with Public Health, and the release of further information not available to us prior to the release of our Guidelines for Level 3 (Archdeaconry of Labrador) and Level 4 (Archdeaconries of Avalon and Trinity-Conception-Placentia) on March 12, 2021, we have had to make further adjustments to reflect these consultations and information. The attached documents will replace those released on Friday.  The changes regard our participation in singing and the sharing of the Holy Eucharist.  Please remember these revised guidelines work side by side with our Diocesan COVID-19 regulations Many Members, One Body (February 2021). Once again, these new documents REPLACE those issued on Friday, March 12, 2021.

Archdeaconry of Labrador (Level 3) – REVISED MARCH 15, 2021

Archdeconries of Avalon & Trinity/Conception/Placentia (Level 4) – REVISED MARCH 15, 2021


UPDATE – March 12, 2021

Our Diocese continues to live within 2 alert levels.

The Archdeaconry of Labrador is in Level 3

and the Archdeaconries of Avalon and Trinity Conception Placentia are in Level 4.

Below you will find two documents with the latest Diocesan COVID-19 information. Please read it carefully and share it with your parish leadership.

PLEASE NOTE: Level 3 in-person worship will come into effect on March 15, 2021.

Thank you for your patience and adaptability as we continue to safely move through
these alert levels.

Archdeaconry of Labrador (Level 3) 

Archdeaconries of Avalon and Trinity/Conception/Placentia (Level 4)


 

UPDATE – February 13, 2021 –

Click to View


UPDATE – February 12, 2021

As we have just learned, we are now at ALERT LEVEL 5 which is full lockdown. This now means all parishes and church buildings in the whole Diocese are now closed. More information will follow soon.

Please stay safe,
Bishop Sam

The Rt. Rev’d Samuel V. Rose
Diocesan Bishop


UPDATE #2 – February 11, 2021 –

Click to View


UPDATE #1 – February 11, 2021 –

Click to View


UPDATE – February 10, 2021 –

Click to View


UPDATE – February 9, 2021

Dear Friends,

Today, February 9, 2021, we received information from our Provincial Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Janice Fitzgerald, that we now have community spread of the Coronavirus in the St. John’s Metro Area.

In light of these recent developments, I am announcing that all in-person gatherings within Church Buildings and properties in the Archdeaconry of Avalon, are to be suspended effective midnight tonight.

More specifically, in-person gatherings are suspended for the following parishes and congregations:

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

St. Thomas’

St. Mark’s

St. Augustine’s

St. Mary the Virgin and St. Peter on the Rock

St. Michael and All Angels

St. Paul’s, Goulds

Pastoral Unit of Petty Harbour, Bay Bulls, Aquaforte

The Church of the Ascension

The Church of the Good Shepherd

St. Nicholas, Torbay

All Saint’s, Pouch Cove

St. Lawrence

Bell Island

St. Philip’s

Holy Innocents

St. John the Evangelist

All Saints, Conception Bay South

St. Peter’s

All in-person gatherings for worship, be it on Sunday or any other day of the week, will now cease in these parishes for the time being.  Worship should be offered online, if possible, with the minimum number of persons to assist.

Funerals, weddings, or other pastoral situations that require physical, in-person gathering may proceed, yet are restricted to 20 people in total, with all persons maintaining physical distancing at all times. Sharing in the Eucharist, and other liturgical actions that will compromise physical distancing, must not occur within any of these gatherings. Congregational singing is also not permitted.

Other in-person gatherings that take place, such as Sunday School, Bible study, ACW, Men’s fellowship, Vestry Meetings, will also cease until further notice. These meetings and gatherings, where possible, should be offered online.

Community Groups and/or Commercial businesses that use these buildings, such as daycares and after-school programs, may continue to operate according to the public health directives and orders outlined by the Chief Medical Officer.

Groups, such as CLB and Girl Guides; sport and recreation activities, such as martial arts; group arts and cultural activities, such as dance studios and choirs and bands; have all been ordered to cease operations by the Chief Medical Officer. Such groups and commercial renters falling within these categories are not permitted to use the church buildings within these parishes until further notice.

These restrictions are now in effect for all parishes and congregations within the Archdeaconry of Avalon as this is the geographic source of the recent outbreak.  Although these guidelines do not apply to the Archdeaconries of Trinity/Conception/Placentia, and Labrador, that can change at any moment. The current outbreak being experienced within the St. John’s/Metro area can happen anywhere within our province at any time. It is so important now that we do not be complacent, and that we do everything necessary, as directed by Public Health Authorities, to keep everyone safe. I encourage all parishes to continue to review our Many Members, One Body document and to ensure that current practice is fully in line with its Covid 19 guidelines.

I have complete confidence in our Public Health Officials to navigate us through this challenging time, yet, we must do our part as well. Although the Chief Medical Officer has not ordered churches to close, I believe this response is necessary at this time. Doing so will ensure our communities remain protected as much as possible, and will give Health Officials the time and space to do what they need to do.The Diocese will continue to monitor the situation, remain in consultation with Public Health, and adjust our response as required. The situation continues to change rapidly, moment to moment, and our response must be the same. I ask all Clergy and Lay Leaders within our Parishes to remain informed and diligent in this regard.

As your Bishop, I am committed to providing safe places of worship and gathering for all people.  We have been very fortunate since last Fall to be open for public worship and other activities, unlike other churches across Canada.   Now that our situation has changed, we must change accordingly.  I know that this has been difficult for us.  I miss being able to be together as we once did.  But the sacrifices we make now will ensure that we will be able to gather as the whole Church in the near future.

Until that glorious day my friends, may we continue to stand fast in faith and never lose hope in the promise that God is always with us.  I ask that we pray for those directly affected by this pandemic, those awaiting test results and those front line workers in our hospitals and other healthcare facilities.  

Let us pray:

We are not people of fear:

we are people of courage.

We are not people who protect our own safety:

we are people who protect our neighbours’ safety.

We are not people of greed:

we are people of generosity.

We are your people God,

giving and loving,

wherever we are,

whatever it costs

For as long as it takes

wherever you call us.

Amen.

– Bishop Sam Rose


UPDATE – February 1, 2021

The latest revised updated version of Many Members, One Body (updated February 1, 2021) can be downloaded by clicking the link below.  Please note that this current version replaces all previous revisions of the document:

MANY MEMBERS, ONE BODY (Revised February 1, 2021)


Previous Updates
Updates to “Many Members” document – September 18, 2020

The following document reflects adjustments to the “Many Members, One Body” Guidance, as implemented by the Diocese and approved by the Ad Hoc Executive Committee, to reflect recent changes to Government Guidance and Directives in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In instances where the following is in conflict with the wording of the “Many Members, One Body” Document, this update will take precedence.

Click HERE to download 

Diocesan Ad Hoc Executive Committee:
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Geoff Peddle
Canon Brad Wicks
Ven. Sam Rose
Ven. Charlene Taylor
Ms. Deboarah Pantin
Mr. Fred Dinham
Rev. Christopher Fowler


COVID-19 Update to the Diocese – August 19, 2020

With recent announcements this week by the Province, please see the necessary updates to our Many Members, One Body document below:

Mandatory Use of Masks in Public Places
All individuals shall wear a non-medical mask that covers the nose and mouth when in a place of worship. Non-medical masks are not required to be worn by children under the age of 5 nor by people with physical or mental health conditions that prevent them from wearing a mask. Masks may be removed once individuals are seated and provided that physical distancing can be maintained between individuals or bubbles. Masks may also be removed to receive Communion. Masks must be worn when moving around the building.

Update to Appendix A of Many Members, One Body
Please find the updated text to Appendix A of the “Many Members, One Body” Document. This update will replace the Appendix A previously released.  Click Here

Capacity
Places of worship may host services and faith based activities of no more than 100 people, or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less. This limit includes officiants, staff and volunteers.

Definition of Masks within the Many Members, One Body Document
Any reference to masks within the “Many Members, One Body” Document should be interpreted to mean “non-medical masks”.

Clarification of Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols
With respects to cleaning and sanitizing, parishes would be best served to determine what areas of the building will be used by the general public. Further to that, within the spaces identified as being used by the general public, you can further derive what surfaces could potentially be touched by the hand. These are the surfaces that would need to be sanitized between gatherings. The remaining parts of the public area need only be cleaned on a regular basis – not after each gathering. Frequently touched surfaces are the most likely to be sources of transmission. These are the surfaces that need to be sanitized between gatherings.

By way of an example, one such area that we know the public will be gathering is in the nave. The pews, being something that most people will touch with their hands, will need to be sanitized between gatherings. The floor, although potentially infected with droplets, is highly unlikely to be touched by the hand, thus the floors need only be cleaned on a frequent and regular basis (at least once a week and when visibly soiled or dirty).

With respects to bathrooms, there is no need to clean the whole bathroom, as you would normally do on a regular basis, after an individual has used it. The guidelines ask that a quick disinfecting of the high touch areas be performed between users – a quick wipe of the high touch areas with a disinfectant spray and cloth. Aside from this, the bathrooms should be cleaned on a frequent and regular basis (at least once a week and when visibly soiled or dirty).


Update July 27, 2020

The Atlantic Bubble revision to “Many Members, One Body”

With the introduction of the Atlantic Bubble on Friday, July 3, 2020, interprovincial travel for residents of Atlantic Canada without the requirement to self-isolate is permitted in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

With this in mind, the following changes are effective immediately within the document “Many Members, One Body: Guidelines for Safe Practices in Anglican East NL in the time of
COVID-19”:

Page 10:
Communication regarding your worship schedule and how to register will need to be communicated to the members of the Parish, and the general public where possible. This communication should also stress that “drop in” visitation is not permitted at this time and that those who have travelled outside the Atlantic provinces in the last 14 days, or those who have symptoms of Covid-19, are not permitted to attend worship at this time. The Facilitator will need to explore and undertake many ways, recruiting help where possible, to extend this communication as broadly as possible within your community.

Page 12:
When receiving registration, the people registering should ensure that they, and the members of their household (whether attending or not), have not travelled outside the Atlantic provinces in the last 14 days and that no one within the household are feeling sick or displaying symptoms of Covid-19. Symptoms of COVID-19 include loss of speech or movement, chest pain or pressure, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, unexplained rash on your skin, loss of taste or smell, headache, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, sore throat, aches and pains. It is recommended that anyone planning on attending worship should complete the Covid-19 Self-Assessment found at:
https://www.811healthline.ca/covid-19-self-assessment/

The revised document can be downloaded here: Many Members, One Body


Parish Screening Questionnaire to be used when registering persons who wish to attend worship in our parishes can be downloaded here:  Parish Screening Questionnaire

 


Fellowship and Fundraising
The Diocese recognizes the economic strain that parishes have been under since the advent of Covid-19 and the desire to engage in traditional fellowship and fundraising activities once again. Obviously, the health and wellbeing of staff, volunteers and customers is the prime consideration when considering events and activities. Please note that the following guidelines apply to the province’s current Alert Level 2. Should the alert level return to Level 3, or even 4, in the future, diocesan guidelines will change to reflect that.

Please Note that only those parishes that have submitted a re-opening plan, received the Bishop’s permission to re-open for worship, and have in fact re-opened, will be permitted to engage in fundraising activities.

To download this document, please click here: Fellowship and Fundraising for Reopening


Update July 21, 2020

After receiving requests from parishes on the issue of rentals of our Parish Halls and Church Halls, the Ad Hoc Executive Committee, based on the recommendation of the Provincial Health guidelines, are making the following revision to the section on Page 15 entitled “Building Use by User Groups and Rentals” to provide better clarity.

This new paragraph will replace the existing one:

Page 15

Building Use by User Groups and Rentals

The rental of Church Buildings for public gatherings or social events remains prohibited. These rentals are defined to be non-commercial, private users (individuals or groups looking to use our space for social gatherings). Commercial Renters are permitted in so far as they are authorized to operate by the Provincial Chief Medical Officer of Health and if being fully compliant with all Public Health Regulations and Guidance. Permission to use our buildings by such Commercial Renters will require approval of the Diocese. Such approval will be subject to assurance that such a commercial use of our space is permitted by the provincial authorities and that the Renter has devised a plan to assure that all Public Health Regulations and Guidance will be adhered to while renting our properties.

The revised document can be downloaded here: Many Members, One Body


Update July 10, 2020

Please read the Special Pastoral Directive on Holy Baptism as authorized by the Bishop:

https://anglicanenl.net/home/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Special-Pastoral-Directive-on-Holy-Baptism.pdf


Update June 24, 2020

Please read these documents below related to the Province reaching Alert Level 2 and the way forward in resuming public worship in the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador:

Bishop Peddle’s 5th Pastoral Letter on COVID-19

Many Members, One Body (Rom. 12:4-5): Guidelines for Safe Practices in Anglican East NL in the time of COVID-19

COVID-19 Guidance for Faith-Based Organizations – Government of NL


MEMO to the Diocese – June 17, 2020

Dear Friends,

As you may have heard today, the Chief Medical Officer announced that the Province will be entering Level 2 on June 25, 2020 which is earlier than expected. We know that according to the guidelines for this Level that churches will be permitted to reopen with restrictions. These restrictions are still not known as they have not been communicated to the Diocese and other faith communities.

In preparation for this, the Ad Hoc Committee of the Diocesan Executive has been finalizing a Diocesan Plan for the reopening of our church buildings and the hope was to have this Plan released this week along with a Pastoral Letter from the Bishop. However, the Bishop was recently contacted to participate in a conference call with the Chief Medical Officer and other Provincial and faith leaders on Tuesday, June 23 to discuss the specifics on the restrictions for reopening which are vital for the completion of our own Diocesan Plan. The Ad Hoc Committee believes that before we can release our Plan, we need to listen to the Provincial Health authorities first to ensure we have as much information as possible.

Therefore, it is our goal to have the Diocesan Plan for reopening ready to be released with the Bishop’s Pastoral Letter on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 after this meeting with the Province. To be clear, this does not mean that any of our church buildings will be permitted to reopen on that same date. Most likely, the reopening of our church buildings will take place sometime in September because the Diocesan Plan will take time to implement effectively. We need to ensure that every parish and every rector has had ample time to study the Diocesan Plan and build up a local leadership team to put the Plan into practice. Given that we are now in Summer when traditionally our clergy take their holidays and our congregational numbers decline, it is simply not the most practical time to reopen. We must make sure that the health and safety of all those who enter our buildings are the main priority. We should not rush to reopen when we are not ready.

So, we will know more next week and once we do, we will release our Plan. After some study by the clergy and parishes over the Summer, the Ad Hoc welcomes your thoughts and ideas on how to implement it at the local parish level. This will be a “living document” that requires your input and assistance. However, at the same time, we will not waiver from the official health protocols and guidelines which affect us all. The bottom line is that we have to ensure that everyone is protected and kept safe.

May God bless us as we continue on this journey together.

In Christ,

Archdeacon Sam Rose
Diocesan Executive Officer
Anglican Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador

https://anglicanenl.net/home/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/MEMO-to-the-Diocese-June-17-2020.pdf


Announcement – May 25, 2020 

In light of the current restrictions due to COVID-19, the Ad Hoc Executive Committee has decided that all Flower Services/Commemoration Services are not to be held in our Cemeteries this summer. This is to follow the current guidelines around public gatherings. While this is an unfortunate consequence of COVID-19, parishes are encouraged to hold virtual and online worship, much like what the St. John’s/Mount Pearl Cemetery Committee is doing this July.


CLICK to Read the Bishop’s Sermons during COVID-19
Bishop Peddle’s Pastoral Letters RE COVID-19

April 6, 2020 – Easter Pastoral Letter – See YouTube Video HERE

March 27, 2020 – Pastoral Letter #4

March 20, 2020 – Pastoral Letter #3

March 16, 2020 – Pastoral Letter #2

March 12, 2020 – Pastoral Letter #1

Bishop’s Moments of Grace – April 2, 2020 – This too shall pass 
Anglican East NL Payroll Support Plan for paid clergy and lay staff visit this LINK
To Watch the Diocesan Eucharist from March 22, 2020 visit this LINK

Bishop’s Sermon from March 22, 2020 Diocesan Eucharist

Order of Service for March 22, 2020 can be downloaded here via Dropbox

Our Diocesan YouTube Channel can be found at this LINK
Our Diocesan Facebook Page can be found at this LINK
Our Diocesan Twitter Page can be found at this LINK

Online Worship

As we move to a more online presence, many of our parishes are offering worship and other devotions plus regular communications on Facebook.  Here is a list of our parishes in the Diocese where you can connect in a more direct way.

If your Facebook page is not incorrect or not listed here, please contact Archdeacon Charlene Taylor at executiveofficer@anglicanenl.net

Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland & Labrador

https://www.facebook.com/AnglicanEastNL/

The Anglican Cathedral

https://www.facebook.com/anglcathstj/

 

Parish of All Saints

http://allsaintsparish.ca/

 

Parish of the Ascension

https://www.facebook.com/ParishoftheAscension/

 

Parish of Bay de Verde

 

Parish of Bay Roberts/Coley’s Point

https://www.facebook.com/parishbayrobertscoleyspoint/

 

Parish of Bell Island

https://www.facebook.com/groups/206953086100091/

 

Parish of Carbonear

https://www.facebook.com/St-James-Anglican-Church-of-Carbonear-101784967005143/

 

Parish of Churchill Falls

https://www.facebook.com/St-Marks-Anglican-and-United-Church-in-Churchill-Falls-362412894318031/

 

Parish of the Good Shepherd

https://www.facebook.com/Church-of-the-Good-Shepherd111-Richard-Nolan-Drive-Mount-Pearl-NL-676526735794027/

 

Parish of Harbour Grace

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2162801597373623/

 

Parish of Heart’s Content

https://www.facebook.com/groups/129286916598/

 

Parish of the Epiphany

https://www.facebook.com/groups/282871711745760/

 

Parish of the Holy Innocents

https://www.facebook.com/HolyInnocentsChurchNL/

 

Parish of the Holy Cross

https://www.facebook.com/groups/402292277194407/about/

 

Parish of the Holy Spirit

https://www.facebook.com/Parish-of-The-Holy-Spirit-2164535990461860/

 

Parish of the Holy Trinity

https://www.facebook.com/Anglican-Parish-of-the-Holy-Trinity-102314237820584/

 

Parish of Labrador West

https://www.facebook.com/Anglican-Parish-of-Labrador-West-194369730745789/

 

Parish of Lake Melville

https://www.facebook.com/St-Andrews-Church-Happy-Valley-Goose-Bay-498076840289310/

 

Parish of the Living Water

https://www.facebook.com/parishofthelivingwater/

 

Parish of New Hope

https://www.facebook.com/stpaulsgoulds/

 

Pastoral Unit of Petty Harbour/Petty Harbour/Aquaforte

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1569815113262799/

 

Parish of Port de Grave

https://www.facebook.com/pdganglican/

 

Parish of Pouch Cove

https://www.facebook.com/AllSaintsChurchPouchCove/

 

Parish of the Resurrection

https://www.facebook.com/Churchhouse/

 

Parish of Southeast Labrador

https://www.facebook.com/groups/323457294416643/

 

Parish of Spaniard’s Bay/Tilton

https://www.facebook.com/anglicanspaniardsbay/

https://www.facebook.com/allsaintschurchtilton/

 

Parish of St. Augustine

https://www.facebook.com/StAugustinesNL/

 

Parish of St. John the Evangelist

https://www.facebook.com/SJTETopsail/

 

Parish of St. Lawrence

https://www.facebook.com/stlawrenceportugalcove/

 

Saint Luke’s Ecumenical Congregation

https://saintlukeshomes.ca/the-latest/events/saint-lukes-ecumenical-service/

 

Parish of St. Mark the Evangelist

https://www.facebook.com/stmarksnl/

 

Parish of St. Mark, Shearstown/Butlerville

https://www.facebook.com/St-Marks-Shearstown-NL-112684833704321/

 

Parish of St. Mary the Virgin

https://www.facebook.com/stmaryscornwall/

 

Parish of St. Michael and All Angels

https://www.facebook.com/stmichaelandallangels/

 

Parish of St. Peter

https://www.facebook.com/St-Peters-Anglican-Church-905997119476131/

 

Parish of St. Philip

https://www.facebook.com/st.philipsanglicanchurch/

 

Parish of St. Thomas

https://www.facebook.com/stthomasnl/

 

Parish of St. Timothy, Rigolet

https://www.facebook.com/St.MarksCF/

 

Parish of Torbay

https://www.facebook.com/St.NicholasTorbay/

 

Parish of Upper Island Cove

https://www.facebook.com/groups/300859383373258/