Dear Brothers and Sisters,

It has been a joy for us to be able to provide services at West Highland both onsite and online since the middle of June. From the outset of this, we have been monitoring the onsite attendance and been making adjustments as necessary. In a recent Ministry Team meeting, we decided that beginning this Sunday, July 26 we will provide just one Sunday morning worship service at 11:00 A.M. available both onsite and online for the West Highland family. We will continue to provide STAR Kids Family Service both onsite and online at 10:30 A.M.

While this was a difficult decision, it is in keeping with past summers when we have moved to just one worship service. The reality of many vacationing in the summer months as well as the challenges we are all facing from the Coronavirus pandemic has made this decision necessary. We will still be able to accommodate in one service the numbers of people who have been worshiping onsite since the middle of June. If you are planning to be onsite, please make sure to reserve your spot by registering on our website or by calling the office at 905-387-5385.

You are also likely aware of the recent municipal bylaw that came into effect this week requiring people to wear face coverings within enclosed public spaces, including places of worship. Accordingly, beginning July 26, all persons entering or remaining in these premises shall wear a face covering which covers the nose, mouth, and chin, unless exempt for reasons outlined in the bylaw. Please be aware that the speaker delivering the message and worship team singers will not be wearing a mask when speaking or singing. There may also be some people in the congregation who are legitimately exempt from wearing a mask.

While the many directives and protocols related to COVID-19 can be challenging at times, let’s be resolved to not let it distract us from worshiping our great God who is worthy of all our praise. Let’s continue to pray and work hard to respect our brothers and sisters in the choices they make – whether they worship onsite or online, whether they wear a mask or cannot. May God fill us with the Spirit of love for each other and worship toward Him.

May God bless us all as we worship Him.