Guidance on face coverings in Church

The guidance on face covering and how this relates to churches has been updated and the following is strongly recommended:

Should I wear a face covering in a church building?

Face coverings are currently mandatory on public transport and will be mandatory in shops and in supermarkets from 24 July 2020. People are also encouraged to wear face coverings in enclosed public spaces where there are people they do not normally meet, such as a place of worship. We strongly advise that face coverings should be worn by all those attending a place of worship, including ministers, worshippers, staff, volunteers, contractors and visitors, where there may be other people present; remembering that they are mainly intended to protect other people, not the wearer, from coronavirus COVID-19 and that they are not a replacement for physical distancing and regular hand washing.

The guidelines do set out some exemptions, including children under eleven and health reasons (https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-churches), but from Sunday if you can, then please do wear a mask and those who will be leading worship will be following the guidelines. A mask can be removed to receive communion, although should be worn up to the point of being given the bread.

I am aware that this is another change to normal practice, but in everything that we do the concern is protecting the safety of others.

It is possible that the guidelines may change again soon (possibly today) and if this happens I will update you before the weekend.

Thank you for your ongoing prayer and support.

With best wishes,

Jonathan