[Update 17/04/20: Following the advice of the Archbishops of York and Canterbury, we will no longer be holding public services. Read the Archbishops’ complete statement here.]
A Prayer from the Church of England
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy
in this time of uncertainty and distress.
Sustain and support the anxious and fearful,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may rejoice in your comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.
To ensure everyone’s health and minimise risk of infection in the current coronavirus pandemic, we have followed the Church of England’s advice and put the following measures in place in the parish:
- Sidespersons will spray your hands with antibacterial gel as you enter the church (a bit like entering the restaurant on a cruise!)
- We will use the low altar for Holy Communion, and we will stand to receive the bread (the rail will not be in place). We will receive Communion in one kind only, ie, the bread, and although the wine will be consecrated, it will not be consumed. Please note that the Church has historically taught that to receive in one kind is to receive both the body and blood of Christ, so it is no less spiritually nourishing
- There will be no physical contact during the Peace—simply say ‘Peace’ or ‘Peace be with you’ to those either side of you, without shaking hands
- The collection plate will not be passed around, but you may drop something in the plate as you leave at the end of the service
- There will be no refreshments after the Eucharist
- St Paul’s Lunch Club is cancelled until further notice
- St Paul’s Coffee Morning continues on Thursdays, but we’ll make alternative provisions for the serving of drinks and snacks, in keeping with guidelines
We will keep you updated if any other measures are put in place. Please stay safe, and be assured of our prayers for everyone’s continuing health and well-being; Our Lord remains our healer and comforter.
