More information on the Corona Virus
I
hope most of you got to review the letter put out by Bishop Ed on this topic.
We have been in contact with the Episcopal Relief and Development so we can
pass on information. The following information is not to alarm anyone or make
anyone afraid to come to church. The chance of you getting this illness is low
at this time and we want to see everyone in church unless you are sick; in that
case then stay home. Corona Virus is spread by coughing or sneezing, please
cover mouth if this happens as it can affect anyone within 6 to 7 feet.
Taking
communion should be safe, the Priests are aware to take safety practices and
should show the others serving at the altar. It is hard for an illness to be passed by most
common cups because of the types of metal that they are made of and because
turning the cup and purificator reduces the chance of passing on illness. If
you are concerned, then just receive the Body of Christ and not the cup.
Intinction should be avoided as hands might come in contact with the wine.
Coronavirus
disease is a respiratory illness and precaution should be taken as one would to
guard against a cold or flu as this illness is a step up from flu having some
of the same signs. It is transmitted by fluids so wash or clean hands often
when touching common things such as doorknobs. It is recommended that you wash
your hands for 20 seconds (between fingers and nails). Hand sanitizer will help
but masks do very little to help as the illness can enter thought any membrane
such as eyes.
Children
are less likely to get a severe case, rather it is ones with weakened immune
systems or elderly. However, in children’s
areas remove stuffed animals and clean the play toys. Alcohol is not a good cleaner. You may want
to stock up on medication in case you feel ill and cannot get out. Some are
hoping there will be medicine to stop this virus in a year of two but other medical
professionals believe it is not likely, so we need to stay safe. It is also recommended
to get a flu shot.
This
virus should not change our lives as we move forward with our day to day things
such as work, school or going to church. As you pray remember the health
workers and if you have any in your church, they may be a good resource.
We will be sending out
additional resources as we finalize them. Until then, please continue to check
out the CDC, WHO, Faith-Based response to COVID--19, and your local health departments for
updates.
A prayer When
You Cannot Attend Worship:
In union, O
Lord, with your faithful people at every altar of your Church, where the Holy
Eucharist is now being celebrated. I desire to offer you praise and
thanksgiving. I remember your
death, Lord Christ; I proclaim your resurrection; I await your coming in glory.
And since I cannot receive you today in the Sacrament of your Body and Blood, I
beseech you to come spiritually into my heart. Cleanse and strengthen me
with your grace, Lord Jesus, and let me never be separated from you. May I live
in you, and you in me, in this life and the life to come. Amen.
- Prayer Book for the Armed Forces (1988)
Remember
we are loving Christians doing Christ’s work by helping others. Feel free to reach
out to me if you have any questions.
Rev.
Paul Snyder, Deacon
Disaster
Preparedness
Episcopal
Diocese of Oklahoma
psnyder@epiok.org
(405)
232-4820