Coronavirus - District response

Dear Friends,

 

I last wrote to you at the beginning of January when we had just gone into the third national lockdown and when, on the basis of the evidence and statistics, I discouraged public worship for the time being.

 

As we move through the steps away from lockdown and the vaccination programme continues apace, I know that some churches will be considering re-opening.

 

As I previously wrote, the decision is within the gift of managing trustees; if a risk assessment has been done, and if people adhere to protocols around distancing, wearing masks, handwashing and cleaning, then public worship could resume.

 

If you decide to proceed with reopening, please consult with your Superintendent minister. There is also the support of the District team and useful information on the Methodist Church in Britain website.

 

We pray for God’s continued wisdom and guidance at this challenging time.

 

 

God Bless

 

Paul

 

 

Official Guidance from Connexional Property Team

 

The website has been updated to reflect the new guidance for Step 3 of the roadmap.  The link is Coronavirus Guidance for Property (methodist.org.uk).

 

From Step 3 - no earlier than 17 May

  • Up to 6 people, or two households, can gather indoors
  • Most significant life cycle events can resume, limited to no more than 30 people. This will include events such as weddings, wakes, private baptisms, naming ceremonies and stone setting ceremonies
  • Wedding receptions can also proceed with up to 30 people

 

Step 4 - no earlier than 21 June

At Step 4, the government aims to remove all limits on life cycle events and other gatherings. This will be subject to the outcome of the scientific Events Research Programme, which will include a series of pilots using enhanced testing approaches and other measures to run events of larger sizes.

 

 

Coronavirus/ COVID 19

Government advice can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/staying-alert-and-safe-social-distancing/staying-alert-and-safe-social-distancing

Advice from Connexion (Methodist Church House is closed), being updated regularly  online at: https://www.methodist.org.uk/about-us/coronavirus/official-guidance/

Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.methodist.org.uk/about-us/coronavirus/official-guidance/#faqs