General Pandemic Ministry Guidelines

GREEN STAGE

EFFECTIVE October 15, 2022

The pandemic continues to persist throughout Ontario and across the diocese. As such, the health
and wellbeing of all people must always be put at the forefront of our decision-making process. We
offer the following guidance, consistent with public health advice and the Green Stage of Ecclesiastical
Province of Ontario’s pandemic framework, confident in the knowledge that parish leaders and
parishioners will make prudent and responsible decisions.

1. Clergy, staff, and parishioners are encouraged to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms and to
stay home if feeling unwell.
2. Well-fitted masks, preferably medical masks or respirators, are encouraged to be worn by
people if they feel it is right for them, are at high risk for severe illness, recovering from
COVID-19, are a close contact of someone with COVID-19, as well as those ministering with
vulnerable and/or unvaccinated populations, and in crowded, enclosed and close-contact
settings. Masking continues to be required in all long-term care and retirement homes.
3. Enhanced mechanical ventilation should be facilitated wherever possible, with HVAC system
fans running continuously during activities to increase air exchange. Alternatively, or in
addition, natural ventilation should be facilitated by opening windows and doors to the outside.
4. Hand sanitizer stations (with at least 60% alcohol content) should be placed throughout
church buildings to assist with maintaining good hand hygiene. 

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