COVID-19 Updates

In so many ways.  Pine Grove, your messages and comments through social media are an encouragement.  Your acts of kindness to others is inspiring.  I went to some stores today to see if the employees had hand sanitizer for themselves.  Those that did, asked me if I wanted to use theirs. What generosity!! There are trades people working in small business that don't have access to hand sanitizer.  I am happy to share with them.  The Bishop phoned today to check in on us.  I was pleased to report that Pine Grove is moving along just fine.  Keep up the good works!  Share some stories here or on facebook, about the blessings of this season.

Thank you everyone who signed up for Hugs from a Distance.  A full compliment of volunteers has been received and the project is now fully operational.  Thank You Pine Grove.  If you attend Pine Grove Church and you live alone someone will be hugging you from a distance.  I will try to hug you ask often as I can with phone calls and emails.  

A video by Dr. Brian Hart a physician in Gananoque has been uploaded to the church website.  You will find it in the YOUR HEALTH tab on www.pgcc.ca.

Click below to here a 5 minute message from our Bishop

https://vimeo.com/399153085?fbclid=IwAR0eolLKbgUSKGqd3UZit0kAoQeSeXby4bFkjGCixhUWV_xmTIhUtsgiBT0

Isolating isn't uncommon in the senior population.  Yes, many who are isolating now did have the freedom to come, go and socialize but they are still often forgotten and lonely living in forced isolation.  I am a hugging pastor for those who want hugs.  Seniors and particularly those who live alone crave healthy touch and they are the majority on a Sunday morning with their arms reaching out for that Pastor-Hug.  Those who live alone and are practicing social distancing through isolation are at low risk for contracting the covid-19 virus but they are at higher risk of experiencing emotional trauma due to lack of social interaction.  Let's be pro-active at preventing an epidemic of mental health issues for those who are isolating alone.  Under 60's crowd at Pine Grove, this is a chance for you to step-up-to-the-plate.  I have created a program I am calling -- "Hugs from a Distance".  I challenge children, youth and young adults to adopt someone who is isolating and care for them during this pandemic.  

How will you do this?  Once you signup on our website www.pgcc.ca/hugs, you will be assigned someone who is alone and isolating.  It will be your responsibility to connect with them via letters, phone calls, emails or facetime depending on their level of technical confidence and your preferences.  You will be provided all the information that you need.  Children can draw pictures, colour pictures or write notes.  You can be as creative as you wish without going inside their homes.  Let's not let one vulnerable isolated senior be forgotten.  

Romans 12:13 "Share with God's people who are in need"