Dear Friends,
As you will no doubt have heard, Dr Bonnie Henry has called for new stricter measures concerning public gatherings and events. This includes services of worship, whether indoors or outdoors. This is a short-term intervention, lasting a minimum of two weeks: however, I think we would be prudent to plan for these measures to be extended beyond December 7.
In terms of Cathedral life, here are the immediate effects of these new orders:
Of course, this is disappointing news – even though, I suspect, not surprising. Let us call upon the spiritual resources of hope, perseverance, self-discipline, and patience to carry us through, and may God help us to be an encouragement to our neighbours.
Meanwhile, we are continuing to make plans for a very different Christmas – which will include a televised service of Christmas Lessons and Carols, and – should the restriction on outdoor gatherings be lifted by then – an outdoor “sound and light” celebration of the nativity in the evenings leading up to Christmas. We are calling this project “Christmas Re-imagined”. If we are permitted by Christmas to gather indoors again, there will be two celebrations of the eucharist on Christmas Day. Stay tuned for more information.
Please be well and stay well. And do not hesitate to be in touch.
Faithfully,
Ansley