Flu Season
The season for colds and flu’s is now upon us and presents its own challenges for churches.
Here at the church we have installed hand sanitizer dispensers at each entry point for the convenience and protection of those attending. The cost is minimal and the possible prevention of several cases of the flu or cold is well worth it. As an added benefit it maintains the comfort level of worshippers and reminds them that we are concerned with both their spiritual and physical wellbeing.
Another step we have taken this year due to the possibility of an H1N1 outbreak is to offer options when greeting on the way in or out. Our custom is for my wife and I to stand in the entry after service is dismissed to greet and shake hands with each person. This past Sunday I gave the following instructions to the congregation:
- If you wish to shake my hand – extend your hand first. If you do not extend your hand I will understand that you do not wish to shake hands and I will not be offended.
- You may substitute a “fist bump” or “props” for the traditional handshake if you so desire and are more comfortable with it.
Here in Montreal the “two cheek kiss” is extremely popular. Fortunately it is more like an air kiss on two cheeks – really only dangerous if you go for the left while they are going to the right.
The hand sanitizer dispensers are located approximately 3 feet away from where I stand. It was interesting this past Sunday to watch many who would come out – apply the hand sanitizer and then shake my hand. Then of course there are always one or two who come out with a handful of wet tissues, hardly able to speak and who very much want to shake hands. Fortunately it is a short trip to the dispenser.
The government of Quebec has provided us with a couple of handy guides that can help us avoid the spread of the flu and also help in making decisions regarding care. They are in .pdf format and may be read with the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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