CDN Re-opening Letter
Côte des Neiges Presbyterian Church3435 Côte Sainte Catherine Road
Montreal, QC H3T 1C7
Tel. 514-738-6115
June 21st, 2020
Dear members and friends,
It has been encouraging to hear the provincial health authorities talk about the gradual re-opening of places of worship. We are really looking forward to worshipping together again, but we want to proceed cautiously, respecting the guidelines to keep each one of you safe.
With masks on, and no congregational singing or fellowship around food, up to 50 people are permitted, but staying six feet apart in our small sanctuary limits us to far fewer people. The limited space around the entrance that quickly becomes congested and the very narrow staircase that leads downstairs bring added concerns. Our congregation also includes seniors, families with small children and individuals with health concerns that we do not want to expose to risks of contagion, so we need to proceed slowly and cautiously.
In the coming weeks, the elders and the board of managers will be preparing the building, including upgrading the audio and video system to feed the service to an overflow in the basement, and online. Dividing the congregation between the sanctuary and the basement and allowing those at higher risk to watch from home are wise precautions. We are also planning multiple smaller services that will welcome smaller groups.
Our hope is for a gradual, incremental re-opening in August to test the adjustments to the building and the services, and an official re-start on September 6th, after concerns of a second wave are past and coinciding with the reopening of schools as a natural return to our community life.
In the interim, we will continue to post the Sunday services online each week and maintain the Wednesday evening prayer and Bible study that you can join by Zoom on your computer, or by phone.
As always, if you have any questions, any concerns or any needs with which we can help, please do not hesitate to call or to email. Your prayers for safety are appreciated as we continue to care for individuals in need in our community, as is your ongoing financial support as we find ourselves reaching and helping more people than ever before.
