As the invasive coronavirus makes its way through the Caribbean region, the Anglican Diocese of the Northeastern Caribbean and Aruba, which groups twelve islands, including Anguilla, has joined in taking precautions against the disease.
A letter to that effect has been sent to the Clergy and various congregations throughout the Diocese by The Rt. Rev Leroy Errol Brooks. The correspondence speaks about the disease; the advisories and steps being taken to halt its spread; the position of the Anglican Church in terms of its services including the administering of Holy Communion; and a number of public health directives which persons should follow.
A copy of the guidelines was delivered to The Anguillian newspaper on Monday, March 16, by Bishop Brooks for publication. It reads as follows:
My Brothers and Sisters,
I believe that we have all been monitoring the news reports, advisories and bulletins on the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID -19). A Caribbean Public Health Agency, CARPHA, Executive Director, Dr Joy St. John, is urging health authorities of member states to shift their mind set from preparedness to readiness and rapid response. Already we are hearing of cases of the virus in some of our territories in our diocese.
While we do not want to be purveyors of panic, it is critical that we, as a church, act responsibility. With this in mind, I am directing that the following guidelines be adhered to in our diocese with immediate effect. Let me also point out that several of the actions outlined below are consistent with positions being adopted throughout the Anglican Communion.
- We must follow all public health guidance promulgated by the Public Health Authorities in each of our territories.
- Physical interaction during services, including the Sign of Peace, should be suspended for the time being. A nod, smile or bow will suffice. Shaking hands on entry or departure of religious services/gatherings should be suspended until further notice.
- Everyone administering Holy Communion should wash their hands thoroughly or use alcohol-based hand gel before beginning.
- Holy Communion should be administered in one kind (bread) and placed onto the hands of the recipient only and not onto the tongue. Jesus Christ is received in the bread, just as in the bread and wine. Only the Celebrant should drink from the chalice. Intinction is not an option during this time.
- The church’s duty of care extends to the members of the clergy. Kindly advise the faithful that if they have influenza-type symptoms, not to call the clergy for pastoral visitation. Pastoral support for parishioners who are unable to attend church services should be provided by telephone.
- Parishioners who feel ill and display influenza- like symptoms should stay at home. The symptoms to be aware of in the case of the Corona Virus include cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and fever.
As soon as we have been advised that the threat of transmission of the virus has been minimized or eliminated, we shall resume our regular liturgical practices.
Let us work together to mitigate the spread of the virus in our communities by practicing proper hygiene and encouraging these in our care to do the same.
Unless we are advised differently, we must continue to encourage the faithful to assemble for worship. Corporate worship is integral to healthy living. In addition, let us pray for those searching for a cure, health workers and those suffering from the virus. We commit ourselves and all people into the hands of our merciful Saviour.
