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April 2020

Now, more than ever, it is important to connect and share information and resources with one another. This month's PCConnect is a special e-newsletter for congregations in the time of COVID-19.
 
A Message to Canadians from Religious Leaders in Canada in Response to COVID-19
On March 30, more than 80 religious leaders from across Canada issued a common message to all who call Canada home, expressing the need for hope, gratitude and solidarity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read the Message
The following prayer and pastoral resources for COVID-19 are also available on the PCC website:
Employment Insurance and Payroll Information Related to COVID-19
In response to your questions about Employment Insurance, payroll and benefit options in the event of church closures due to COVID-19, we are providing comprehensive information and advice about the steps to take and the policies and procedures to refer to, as well as other supportive information and options that have been made available to aid congregations and employees.

A continuing compilation of financial resources is available under the Financial & Wellness Resources for Congregations and Employees section of the COVID-19 resources page.

We also have support resources in the areas of mental health and wellness to help people cope with the stress and anxiety they may be feeling in reaction to all the changes and uncertainty we are now faced with. Among the support resources available in this section are articles from the PCC Employee Assistance Program on stress management and self-care.
Read the FAQ

Recent Resources

Christian Education Resources and Activities for Families During School Closures

Latest Updates on PCC Mission Staff Returning to Canada

Message Re: Easter Worship and COVID-19 — Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee

Spring Grants Information and Upcoming Deadline
— April 16, 2020


Joint Statement Issued by the World Council of Churches: A Time for Pastoral, Prophetic and Practical Christianity

Pre-Authorized Remittance (PAR)

Digital Giving Resources

Financial Resources


Useful Links

Worship Page

Resource Portal

Online Order Form

Church Finder

Donate

Online Worship & Meeting Assistance Resources
The national office of The Presbyterian Church in Canada has provided a number of useful online worship resources, tools and services to ensure congregations are connected and well-equipped to continue their ongoing ministry and work at this time.
Access Here
New Equipping For... Articles to Help Congregations 
Two new articles in the popular Equipping For... series have been produced to aid congregations in supporting their communities in these challenging times.

Introduction to Live Streaming for Churches” is a great beginners guide on live streaming church services — an indispensable tool for ministry and worship given the current restrictions on public gatherings. 

Ways Churches Can Offer Connection and Care During Social Distancing” provides creative and effective communication ideas to help churches support and connect with their communities in this time of social distancing.
Download
Stewardship Resources for Giving at a Distance
When people cannot attend church, how can they continue to support their congregation? Under the Stewardship & Planned Giving Information and Resources section of the COVID-19 resources page is information and guidance on online and recurring giving for both donors and congregations, as well as stewardship resources from ecumenical stewardship partners in Canada and the USA.
Learn More
2020 General Assembly Cancellation: Summary of Implications and Pastoral Message from the Moderator
The Assembly Council recently made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 General Assembly in order to ensure the safety of commissioners and staff. The full announcement is available to read here. Following their meeting on March 31, the Assembly Council issued a statement summarizing the implications and proposals regarding the cancellation. In light of these difficult decisions, the Rev. Amanda Currie, who will continue in the role of Moderator for an extra year, has offered a pastoral message of hope and assurance.
Read the Full Summary & Message
Updates to PCC events as a result of the ongoing situation are posted on our main COVID-19 information page.
Call for Submissions 
The Gatherings section of the Presbyterian Connection newspaper is dedicated to showcasing the connections forged through ministry, mission, outreach initiatives and church events. While congregations are not able to do outreach initiatives and events as they normally would at this time, we want the Summer 2020 issue to proudly show how, even in spite of the current limitations on physical contact, the strength of our connections has not wavered.

Be it screenshots of online activities or photos of neighbourhood outreach efforts like running errands for those in isolation, please take a moment to share a photo of the unique ways your congregation is reaching out in these challenging times. The deadline for the Summer 2020 issue is April 17, 2020.
Submit Today
From all of us at the PCC national office, stay well
and may the peace of Christ be with you all.


For questions or comments, please contact us.
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