The thoughts of Council are with you all, as you keep yourselves safe at home during these beautiful spring days.  Enjoy the weather in all the safe ways that you can.  Stay in touch with each other as best you can, and don’t hesitate to say so if you need some help.  We look forward to celebrating with you all when it is safe to do so.  

Meanwhile, a financial note.  We have the guidance of the United Church Pacific Mountain Region as we examine various Government of Canada short term financial programs to help keep our staff employed for the duration.  Program requirements and qualifications seem to change with every new development so that guidance is most welcome.  

Due to the postponement the AGM, I have not been able to give you an accurate picture of our current finances.  I cannot do so in a single paragraph so I will just say that we rely heavily on the investment income from the sale of the Brentwood Bay building, and it is quite likely that this will be reduced for the next few months.  The building sale funds that we hold are in trust and are not a supplement to operating funds. Our challenge is to provide stability and certainty to our staff as they continue to work tirelessly on our behalf in unexpected and evolving circumstances.   

We have a new option for those who want to support the church financially but can’t get out to a mailbox and prefer not to use PAR.  If you use a computer, you can now send an e-transfer via online banking from your financial institution in the comfort of your living room.   It is easier than it sounds and has become quite commonplace – particularly now.   

E-transfers can be sent to tithecsuc@shaw.ca.  Include your envelope number if you know it.  All funds will be deposited directly to the church account and your donation information will be forwarded to bookkeeping for accurate record keeping of your donation.  If you have questions about this process, feel free to give me a call at 250-216-0615 to explore this option.    

Be sure to check the website from time to time for new spiritual and musical offerings and other CSUC community updates.   

And remember, each part of the body is important - so keep safe.