The province announced Wednesday that public gathering sizes will be increased beginning Friday in Manitoba. Twenty-five people will be allowed indoors and 50 people outdoors, where members of the public are reasonably able to maintain a separation of at least two metres from others, except for brief exchanges. This change applies to social gatherings, worship, weddings and funerals.

And, while this change might see some Church congregations begin meeting outdoors this weekend, some have questioned why the restrictions are still so tight. For example, by the time Phase 2 rolls around organizations such as pools, gyms, restaurants, retail business and hair salons will be able to operate at 50 per cent capacity.

So, why not Churches?

Dr. Brent Roussin is Chief Provincial Public Health Officer for Manitoba. He says it has to do with the epidemiology of this pandemic.

“We’ve seen multiple super spreader events in those venues,” shares Dr. Roussin. “It’s a concerning venue.”

He says Church services are typically a prolonged indoor event with close contact and involve singing.

“All of these factors play a role,” he says.

But, on Thursday, Dr. Roussin suggested that Manitoba is definitely not far away from being able to have Churches operate at 50 per cent capacity.

“I think we’re going to be engaging groups and I think we can move forward on trying to accommodate those type of things a bit better,” he says. “But, that’s the reason why we haven’t just landed on that right at this point.”

But, having said that, once the province decides to begin Phase 2 of Restoring Safe Services, Churches will be allowed to hold outdoor events without limitation on numbers if people stay in their vehicles, or outside on the left side of their vehicles, and as long as people remain two metres apart at all times. The use of indoor facilities, such as washrooms, must be limited to no more than 25 people at any one time.

The province has issued the following guidelines to then be followed by patrons, volunteers and staff:

  • Physical distancing must be observed at all times when outside the vehicle for essential purposes, such as to use the washroom, with a minimum of two metres between individuals when outside of their vehicles.
  • Vehicles must be separated by a minimum of two metres.
  • Windows and sunroofs may be open; doors and trunks should remain closed.
  • Only individuals from the same household may occupy the same vehicle.
  • If staff or volunteers are required to have contact with any equipment (ie. speaker), the equipment must be cleaned and disinfected after each use.
  • Access to washroom facilities must be limited.
  • Where washroom access is provided, frequent cleaning and disinfection must take place before, during and after the service.
  • Physical distancing of two metres must be maintained for those waiting for washroom facilities.
  • Food/concession services that are provided should follow applicable restaurant guidelines.
  • Where possible, payments should be accepted through contactless methods.
  • All other services and common areas must be suspended, including picnic areas and play areas.
  • Employees must have access to soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer for hand hygiene, as well as appropriate cleaner and disinfectants.
  • Employees and volunteers are required to stay home if they are sick or symptomatic.
  • Patrons should be reminded that anyone who is feeling sick or symptomatic must remain at home, even if they stay in their vehicle at all times.