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Anglican churches throughout Ontario are cancelling public services amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“In consultation with the bishops of our province, I am recommending the temporary suspension of all public worship services,” Archbishop Anne Germond said in a letter.

“This extraordinary measure is consistent with the measures put in place by other civic institutions within our province, in an effort to impede the transmission of the coronavirus from person to person. While it comes at a cost, this sacrifice is offered out of a deep and abiding love for our neighbours, particularly those who are most vulnerable to severe repercussions from a COVID-19 infection.” READ MORE: Coronavirus: Ontario reports 24 new COVID-19 cases, provincial total rises to 103 Other religious institutions have cancelled services as a result of the pandemic, including the Archdiocese of Toronto which said public masses would not be held on March 14 and 15, though churches would remain open for private prayer. Other religious institutions have cancelled services as a result of the pandemic, including the Archdiocese of Toronto which said public masses would not be held on March 14 and 15, though churches would remain open for private prayer.

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On Friday, Ontario’s chief medical officer of health recommended the immediate suspension of all large gatherings and events of more than 250 people. He also advised that Ontarians practice social distancing as much as possible.

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Ontario confirmed 24 additional cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, bringing the provincial total to 103.

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