A Pastoral Response To The Coronavirus
March 12, 2020
Rising concerns about the spread of Coronavirius in the United States -- and in Fresno County in particular -- have brought a sense of urgency to ensure that University Presbyterian Church maintains a healthy environment for our congregation. In light of new information coming out every day, it is prudent we take some measures to strengthen and communicate our commitment to a healthy church home. Here are some measures we will temporarily implement to help slow the spread of the disease:
Stay home if need be: If you, or a family member is sick, please stay home for the safety of others and view our services remotely. For those of us in high risk groups, please exercise caution in deciding whether or not to attend worship or participate in other church events. Our services will be posted at upcfresno.org/sermons
Reminders to wash and sanitize our hands: We added signage around our building, including our bathrooms, reminding our congregation to wash their hands upon entering the church, and if available, utilize one of our hand-sanitizing stations before entering any environment in our building. Children’s ministry leaders will remind kids to not put their hands on their faces and to wash their hands.
Changes to the Passing of the Peace and the Offering: Out of love for those among us with compromised immune systems we are temporarily suspending the Passing of the Peace and encouraging our congregation to greet one another before and after worship without physical contact - a wave, smile or a peace sign work great! An Offering Box will be available at the back of each worship space for your regular financial gift, or you may give online at upcfresno.org/give. Even if we temporarily stop gathering in person, our ongoing expenses of personnel, facilities maintenance and missions continue, so please maintain your regular levels of giving if you are able.
Modifications to Communion: For the time being, our communion servers will wear gloves when serving communion, and will hand the bread and the cup directly to each individual to prevent people from inadvertently touching the elements. Recognizing that the elements themselves are symbolic of God’s presence with us, you are welcome to observe a time of silent meditation instead of coming forward to receive communion if that is more comfortable for you.
Increased Care for the Vulnerable in our Midst: If you find yourself in need of additional care due to illness or risk during the next couple of weeks, please contact your Deacon. We want to do all in our power to reduce the risk of disease, while also stepping up our care for the most vulnerable among us. Special precautions are also being taken to ensure that our Food Distribution can remain open for those who might be impacted financially due to the coronavirus, while ensuring the safety of our volunteers and guests.
Adhere to guidance from public health officials: If it gets to the point where the city prohibits large gatherings, we will comply with city and state recommendations and will broadcast our services online instead.
Encourage our congregation to remain calm and be respectful: It’s important that facts and faith outweigh fear, and the reality is that, currently, the general risk remains low in Fresno. We encourage everyone to listen to local health authorities and follow common-sense precautions to protect themselves and their communities. Additionally, we are aware of racist and discriminatory acts against people from Asian backgrounds and dehumanizing comments against the elderly. We want to demonstrate the love of Jesus and reject any kind of xenophobia that often surfaces during times like these.
Let us be in prayer for those affected around the world, and for the vulnerable among us. We believe that even in the midst of global challenges like this, God is present among us.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Renn and Pastor Dustin