Displaying items by tag: response to virus

NHS field hospital sites in Scotland will be identified ahead of a predicted rapid rise in coronavirus cases. Chief medical officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said, ‘We have had quite detailed discussions very recently and I know that there are sites being considered.’ Referring to comments by the vice-president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine that the dramatic explosion in coronavirus case numbers in London could be replicated in Scotland, she said, ‘Unfortunately, he is absolutely right. We have people with mild illness, which we know 80% of people will experience - but up to 20% of people will have a much more significant illness.’

‘We grieve for those who have lost their lives or loved ones. We grieve about the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions of this pandemic. We are grateful for those working tirelessly to care for the sick, curb the spread, and create a cure and vaccine. But most importantly, we stop to remember these Biblical truths about COVID-19: God reigns OVER it. If the wind and sea obey Him, so does this virus (Matthew 8:27). He is IN THE MIDST of it. He’s our ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). He wants to do something THROUGH it. He has good purposes in ALL things (Romans 8:28). He can bring eternal hope OUT OF it. Millions are being forced to face their mortality. It is urgent that each one of them hears and knows the Hope of the Gospel. So let us lift our eyes from the headlines and fix them on Jesus, and pray - because no quarantine will ever stop its power and reach.’

Anglican health and mission agencies had a global consultation to discuss their response to coronavirus. They have published key learnings and some examples of best practice, and are building up a repository of resources and Bible studies that can be adapted for different contexts. The Alliance identified three key roles the Church can play in such times to promote preparedness and resilience. These are ‘to give hope and combat fear with accurate information and encouragement through our faith; to keep the worshipping and wider community connected, if necessary via messages, phone and online, in case of quarantine and disruption; and to show God’s compassion and care to those affected in our communities, remembering that those already most vulnerable will be most affected’.