We all know about peanut allergies and the affects that contact with anything peanut can have on many children and adults. Most people who have peanut allergies will experience a reaction within minutes of touching or eating a peanut or a product that is made from peanuts. For some the reaction can be potentially deadly. It may surprise us to learn that just as many people suffer mild to very serious allergic reactions to fragranced products. Fragrant or chemical sensitivities often come later in life but can also be found in young children. These sensitivities which can create headaches, shortness of breath, and/or a general whole body feeling sick, cause some people to spend their Sunday morning at home.
Willoughby Church council is concerned for those who are sensitive to fragrances and perfumes. Worshippers can get ‘trapped’ in the pew when someone wearing fragrance sits in front, in the back or to the side of them, even a few rows away. Some slip away unnoticed because they cannot tolerate the fragrances.
For the well-being of our church community, Council asks that all those who enter our building be considerate of those who suffer from scent sensitivity or environmental illness. To people who wear scented products, please do not take offense. We are adjusting with the times to promote a healthy environment for everyone. Creating safe space for those who enter our facilities and worship space demonstrates hospitality within the body of Christ and invites all to enter in.