The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions have been with us since March 2020. Although, during the period of time from late spring to early fall, it seemed as though the crisis had settled into a holding pattern, the “second wave” that moved across Canada greatly increased safety protocols over this past winter. Numbers of cases and positive test results rose rapidly, and continued to fluctuate as they eased off gradually. And now, provincial and federal pandemic guidelines and restrictions are being lifted in many jurisdictions, and updates can be found at the links below.
Health Canada Alberta British Columbia Northwest Territories
The United Church of Canada has dedicated web pages for information related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please keep checking for the most up-to-date resources from the General Council Office, including information about Governance, Worship, Congregational Finance, and Emergency Funding: : Faith Communities and COVID-19. A three-phase guidelines document for re-opening discernment and practices can be found on this page as well.
As Communities of Faith resume in-person worship and other activities, and as churches are re-opened and other programs re-launched, we are all advised to keep the safety of our most vulnerable members in mind. The Regional Council has provided two resources for Communities of Faith as they discern their next steps:
Discerning Re-Opening Together Building Re-Opening Plan Template
Please note that the Regional Council Office continues restrict access, with staff working in their individual offices, or at home. Anyone visiting the office is asked to make an appointment ahead of time.
The news feed below includes Regional Council news about the COVID-19 pandemic, and some national updates.
United Church Communities of Faith and Vaccination Policies
Click here for a PDF version of this document June 2021. Some communities of faith and church leadership have been asking whether communities of faith may set rules around COVID vaccinations for members and others who participate in church activities on site. Cynthia...
Voting at your online annual meeting
Voting by ‘ballot’ on Zoom or Email Many people are asking about voting by secret ballot at congregational annual meetings. There’s a very good resource library on this question and others on the Shining Waters Regional Council website. Executive Minister Shannon...
Advent letter in a time of pandemic
Advent blessings, friends in Christ! This is certainly an Advent and Christmas season that will stand out in our memories, as we have to continually discern how best to celebrate the Birth of Christ while also being faithful to our call to love and care for each...
Ecumenical and Interfaith Leaders’ Statement on COVID
Faith leaders from across Northern Alberta, including Northern Spirit Regional Council, offer a statement and reflection on the impact of the COVID pandemic and its impacts. Please share widely in your circles. Please download the PDF here.
Important notice: congregational annual meetings in 2021
On November 26 2020, the Sub-Executive of General Council approved the following, effective immediately. These remain in place until 30 June 2021, subject to earlier cancellation or further extension by decision of the Executive or Sub-Executive of the General...
Reminder: be careful with photo copyright!
...Here are some tips Photos are vital to our websites, social media, worship PowerPoints and much more. They add a lot to our online ministry and in-person PowerPoints. And they’re sometimes a little too easy to take and share. So please be aware, and follow good...
Pastoral letter on re-opening, 9 September 2020
On September 9 Regional Council chairperson Gord Waldie and Executive Minister Shannon McCarthy sent a letter outlining important reminders, resources, and suggestions regarding the difficult discernment of returning to in-person worship and building use. You are...
Re-opening buildings: Planning and discernment resources
As we discuss opening our buildings to various gatherings and needs, we know that complex discernment and planning that will be necessary before any doors can be opened. Lay leadership and ministry personnel alike need to be part of these conversations. To assist,...
Letter to the AB government regarding re-opening of worship
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ, In the name of the One whose Spirit equips us to do justice, act kindly and love God, greetings! On behalf of the Northern Spirit Regional Council (NSRC) of the United Church of Canada, thank you! Your passion and creativity for...
Re-opening resources from the national church
From the national church: An important three-part resource on “re-opening” considerations and practices. Thank you to the many people involved in thinking carefully about the many practical, spiritual, and ethical complexities of these decisions. As always, we are...
