Dear Kamloops

We at the Pacific Mountain Regional Council office know that the COVID-19 crisis has hit our communities hard, and in often unexpected ways. This letter comes to you late in the afternoon, and may cause concern, “what now, and at 4:30pm on a Friday?“. Rather than worry or more work, this letter is provides information about the government announcement earlier today and encouragement to rest this weekend.

Our Provincial and Federal government officials know the value and importance of our faith communities in providing needed spiritual and social support. In a telephone meeting a couple of weeks ago with faith group leaders, Premier Horgan and Dr Bonnie Henry highlighted the important role that faith communities play during this crisis in supporting and ensuring the resilience of our population. There is, even more, a need for pastoral support at this time.

As communities of faith, you are providing vital services to our population. Thank you!

We also realize that many communities of faith are struggling in the uncertainty of finances. Rest assured that Pacific Mountain Regional Council and the General Council Offices are examining alternatives and ideas for weathering this storm. This morning, the federal government announced some aggressive new measures to support employers in retaining employees through this challenging time.

As Executive Minister, I would like to encourage the following:

1. Continue to reach out to Pacific Mountain Regional Council staff with your questions – we are ready to work with you.
2. Please refrain from decisions about staff transitions or lay-offs until we can get you updated information. During the next few days, the General Council Executive will be meeting, and the Federal Government will be providing more details about their support for employers. You can expect more information following those meetings.
3. Take time to review and digest information already in hand: Step-by-Step Tips for Church Finances During COVID19 on the PacificMountain.ca home page and recorded Webinars for Church Treasurers and Ministry Personnel produced by United in Learning this week.
4. Remember the grace of God and the generosity of our participants, which has been a significant strength for communities in past times of trial.

We know that many in our communities of faith are concerned about the future, while others are dealing with illness among themselves and their families. Let’s give ourselves time to consider the help that is available, and the wisest pathways forward.

We ask for your prayers for and with one another as we all do our best to support each community in these difficult times. We are not alone.

Treena Duncan,
Executive Minister