A day of prayer can be proclaimed by the two churches appointed for this (Rehoboth of Burlington/Waterdown and Providence of Edmonton) at their combined initiative. We hereby proclaim Sunday, March 22 a day of prayer for the churches in light of the COVID-19 reality that is sweeping the country.
Church Order Art. 54 describes the criteria for the proclamation of a day of prayer: “In time of war, general calamities, and other great afflictions the presence of which is felt throughout the churches, a day of prayer may be proclaimed by the churches appointed for that purpose by general synod.” When we consider how the Coronavirus has disrupted the way of life in Canada, the United States, and throughout the world, the situation meets the prescribed criteria for a day of prayer. As Christians we do not need to panic, but we look to the LORD for help in this crisis and pray collectively as churches that the LORD may give healing to those who are sick, stop the spread of this virus, grant wisdom to our leaders, give calmness to people, bring back normalcy to our way of life, and cause our nations to look to him for help.
On behalf of the Rehoboth and Providence Councils,
Rev. Clarence J. VanderVelde
Rev. Mark ten Haaf