March 14, 2020
At a time like this, we want to be people of prayer who affirm our relationship and trust in God through Jesus – looking to Him for wisdom, strength, and encouragement. Psalm 46:1-2 says: “God is our place of safety. He gives us strength. He is always there to help us in times of trouble. The earth may fall apart. The mountains may fall into the middle of the sea. But we will not be afraid.” (NIRV)
As a community of believers, we are called to support one another with the promises of God’s Word and to support our community in prayer, encouragement, and pastoral care – even if we are not able to be together physically.
In conjunction with the message from the Ministry of Education re: closure of all publicly funded schools in Ontario, all community use permits from March 14 to April 5, 2020 at the Ottawa Catholic School Board have been cancelled. The Barrhaven Church Board weighed this option with possible health risks and decided that all Salvation Army Church Services at St. Andrew School will be cancelled on March 15th, 22nd, 29th, and April 5th. A lot could happen prior to April 5th, so we will update you as we move along. In addition, we are cancelling all groups, programs, rehearsals, and ministries at our Ministry Centre Office on 2-2201 Jockvale Road – at least until April 5th. Further update to follow.
As your Pastors, we want to assure you of our prayerful and practical support in these days. We will be available at any time if you need to speak with us or for us to pray with you. If you have other needs, please do not hesitate to contact us. Major Jim (613-293-2594), Major Michelle (613-293-2791).
As the Church Board met, we also discussed ways to support one another and our community in these days and we prayed for both our Church family and our community. We will keep you updated of ways we are implementing support. Meanwhile, if you hear of individuals or families that require our Church Pastoral Services, please contact us at 613-440-7555 or email jim@realandrelevant.ca.
As conditions and circumstances change rapidly, let us rest in the fact that our God is still in control. Amidst our anxiety, confusion, and perhaps unrest, let us glean some hope with words of promise from the Apostle Paul.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6)
God Bless You and keep you, God make His face shine up on you, and give you His peace.
Jim & Michelle Mercer
(Corps Officers/Pastors)
Helpful Resources for updates and supports:
https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
https://salvationist.ca/articles/coronavirus-canada-bermuda-territory/
https://www.epi-win.com/all-resources/coping-with-stress-during-the-covid-19-outbreak
https://www.epi-win.com/all-resources/helping-children-cope-with-stress-during-the-covid-19-outbreak