PAONL H1N1 Advisory

In recent days we have received a number of calls concerning the H1N1 Virus and whether we intend to issue a H1N1 advisory.  We have consulted the Regional Health Authorities and all districts of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.  We have internally drafted a policy for our staff.  It may have relevance for your assembly and it may not.  However, we are circulating it for your consideration.  In addition to the enclosed “internal advisory” we recommend these simple guidelines:

(a)    Encourage members and adherents who are experiencing flu-like symptoms to not attend scheduled church services;

(b)    Place hand sanitising dispensers throughout church facilities;

(c)    Where possible, avoid the “passing-it-across-the pew” format of communion in favour of moving in single file to the front of the sanctuary wherein each participant is served the bread by a server using a tong or similar dispensing device.  This practise prevents unnecessary handling of emblems by persons other than the person being served.  This may also be accomplished by the server wearing a food-serving glove and handing the wafer/bread individually to each participant;

(d)    When using assembly hymnal, please refrain from sneezing or coughing directly into the hymnal;

(e)    Discourage handshaking as a greeting;

(f)     Remove toys from nurseries temporarily, asking parents to bring their own children's toys, and discourage the sharing of toys between children since smaller children, especially, tend to put them in their mouths;

(g)    Remind those handling/counting offering to thoroughly wash their hands immediately after.

I trust the foregoing assists us in exercising our duty of care in this delicate matter and thank you for your cooperation.

For more information download the H1N1 Advisory.