Metro Vancouver temples, churches react to coronavirus concerns
Credit to Author: Denise Ryan| Date: Fri, 14 Feb 2020 02:18:38 +0000
Two Buddhist temples in Richmond have temporarily closed to the public over fears surrounding the recent coronavirus outbreak.
Shiufong Shih, a nun at the Ling Yen Mountain Temple on No. 5 Road’s Highway to Heaven, said the temple’s decision was made on Tuesday after receiving information about the virus from their volunteers.
“We don’t have the Internet or television (in the temple),” explained Shih. “Most of the information is provided by our volunteers, and some people are very cautious and afraid of the virus spreading.”
Shih said the Ling Yen Mountain Temple was concerned it would be expected to absorb additional worshippers after the nearby International Buddhist Temple recently closed its doors to the public.
The International Buddhist Temple has a notice on its website stating that they will be closed until further notice, “to maintain public health and control spread of the virus.”
Shih said the Lin Yen Mountain Temple is popular among travellers because it is located close to Vancouver International Airport, and that many travellers who land at YVR come to light incense and pray after their arrival. On weekends, up to 800 visitors a day come to worship.
“We have not had a problem with the illness, but lots of people are worried about it,” said Shih. “We are 35 nuns and five monks and we will use this time to focus on our prayer and transfer the merits and virtues of our practice to all those that are suffering.”
Other places of worship, such as the Anglican Church’s Diocese of New Westminster, have responded to concerns about the coronavirus by publishing public health information on their websites and urge congregants to raise awareness around fears that may turn into prejudices.
Diocese spokesperson Randy Murray said that in terms of handshaking and sharing of the common cup during communion, “This is an opportunity to restate the best practices and clarify areas that were clear in the past.”
Congregants may choose to bow rather than shake hands if they wish, said Murray. “What is important is that everyone respect the others’ wishes.”
Melissa Godbout of the Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver said in an email that at this time there is no formal policy in the archdiocese regarding the coronavirus, and that pastors are free to suggest a nod of the head instead of a handshake during the sign of peace should they choose.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and will be working with health officials to determine if any actions need to be taken,” said Godbout.