A message from BOE Mar 13th

Dear Brothers & Sisters –
 
As you know, we are in unprecedented times as we face the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic. A COVID-19 Special Committee was formed, consisting of medical professionals and church leadership, to assess and make a recommendation to the Board of Elders (BOE) on how to respond to the situation. After much prayer, discussion, and discernment, the CCAC Board of Elders has made the decision to cancel all in-church worship services (see online service arrangement below), as well as regularly scheduled group gatherings (fellowships, life groups, Children’s ministries, prayer meetings, programs/activities) until March 31. The Special Committee will continue to meet throughout this time to monitor and evaluate the situation, and make further recommendations to the BOE.
 
The Special Committee considered many factors in coming to their recommendation.

• The situation is changing so quickly from day to day. A decision needs to be made that isn’t based solely on the current reality, but what may happen within the next few days and weeks.
• The instructions from health authorities is recommending individuals and groups towards social distancing and self-isolation. Our decision should be in alignment with their recommendations.
• There is a large group within CCAC who are considered higher risk to being infected. Our response needs to take into account their well-being and safety.
• We are not fully prepared to manage the risks involved with continuing our normal church functions. Cancelling services and other activities for a period of time will allow us to prepare guidelines and measures to keep people safe when services resume.

 
And finally, this decision was made out of deep care and concern for everyone in our church. We know that this situation is causing anxiety and fear for many, and our decision is meant to acknowledge and alleviate those feelings as much as possible. We are also aware that this is not just a physical battle, but a spiritual one. As followers of Jesus, we believe that God is in control and worthy of our trust and adoration. Although there is uncertainty and difficulties around us, we have Jesus Christ, “a sure and steadfast anchor of our soul” (Hebrews 6:19). Praise the Lord!
 
Even though our services and gatherings have been cancelled temporarily, there are many other ways in which we can continue to stay connected and care for one another. Our pastors have already begun to put together plans and strategies to maintain communication and community with one another. We encourage you to set up group chats and networks to make sure that others are safe and have what they need from day to day. There are many in our neighbourhoods and communities who are at higher risk, such as seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. This is a chance for us to show our love and concern by reaching out to them. Our pastors and leaders will share various plans to help each of us contribute and participate in meaningful and beneficial ways. CCAC will also provide online worship services and content that will enable brothers and sisters to worship and continue growing in faith and unity during this time. Our first online worship service streaming will be at 11:00am for all congregations on this Sunday (March 15). Please check the CCAC website for regular updates www.calgarychinesealliance.org
 
Brothers and sisters, let us pray! Philippians 4:4-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” We trust that God is our peace and comfort during this time of uncertainty. Would He develop in us, faith, hope and love for Him and one another. If you have any questions, concerns, or recommendations, please feel free to email Rev. Jason Fan jason.fan@calgarychinesealliance.org
 
“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. Amen.” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)
 
With much faith, hope, and love,
 
Rev. Jason Fan
On behalf of the CCAC Board of Elders

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