Coronavirus...

How sad it is that some are making the COVID-19 epidemic a political issue, when it is a medical threat to the well-being of so many, particularly those at risk (currently defined as seniors and those with medical conditions that compromise their ability to fight this aggressive virus).

COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that is easily spread. Rigorous hand-washing, limiting "touch greetings" such as hugging and hand-shaking, and avoiding public crowds or other large gatherings of people are ways to help curb the spread of the virus and to avoid being infected, oneself.

As has been reported, wearing facial masks is only effective if YOU have the virus, and helps prevent you spreading it to others around you by coughing, sneezing, or even breathing in close proximity to others. Masks are generally not helpful in preventing infection for the wearer, as they don't adequately screen airborne droplets that may contain the virus. Don't go buy masks, as this has depleted the supply from those who legitimately need them, especially those in the medical field.

St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Allison Park will be following the advice from the Allegheny Health Department, and is seeking to comply with the recommendations emanating from the Center for Disease Control (the CDC). Here are the current precautions we are taking:

-curtailing hand-shaking and other "touch" greetings in our weekend greeting lines

-dispensing hand-sanitizer to all taking Holy Communion at our 8:30AM Communion Service

-cancelling Communion on Palm Sunday, April 5, at all services except the 8:30AM service

-encouraging any members and friends who may be in one of the "at risk" groups to refrain from attending public worship until the crisis has lifted

-encouraging any of our folk who are ill to stay home and attend to your health

As I mentioned earlier, if more stringent measures are recommended (or, heaven forbid, required) by the health officials, we will certainly cooperate. We are also taking measures to "live stream" one of our weekend worship services so those who are forced to stay home, or choose to, may "tune in" and participate remotely.

I believe these measures to be prudent, and in keeping with the love and concern for persons modeled by Jesus. We should not take this "Coronavirus" lightly, as it may be a life-threatening issue for some in our community. Besides, the precautions we take and the systems we create to limit the spread of it may also prepare us for the potential spread of other, more dangerous viruses that may come our way in this age of the "superbugs." Being careful is putting "feet to our prayers."

Our prayers continue to be with those who have lost loved ones to this virus, and for those both infected and exposed to it. It is a time for smart actions and wise counsel, and certainly a time to pay close attention to the experts in the medical and scientific communities. Please do not listen to some of the "Christian" charlatans who are using prayer as their only prophylactic or selling the latest incarnation of "snake oil" as a cure for it. And while a healthy diet may benefit you in many ways, and even "boost" your immune system, it will not shield you from viruses.

Keep your wits about you, beloved. Don't give in to inordinate fears over COVID-19, but don't listen to those who tell you not to be reasonable and prudent with your health! The more we work together, the quicker we will see this threat pass, and the more folk will be spared even the harm of exposure. Shalom, Dear Ones!