Coronavirus Update: 23 March 2020

Our Church Buildings are Closed...

Following the Prime Ministers address to the nation last night and the new restrictions introduced to slow the spread of the Corona Virus all of our churches are closed for the foreseeable future. Some churches had been opening for private prayer and reflection – this sadly must now end. There are to be no service, meetings or activities in our church buildings until such time as the restrictions are lifted. Baptisms and weddings are current prohibited.

Follow the government advice...

We urge everyone to follow the government advice; to stay at home; not to travel unless essential; and to maintain social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet between yourself and others when you venture out for essential shopping, medicine or medical appointments.

We are still church...

During these unprecedented time although we cannot meet we can still 'be church'. So let's continue to pray, to love, to care for the vulnerable, and build our communities, even while separated.

Over the coming weeks we will be discovering new ways of 'being church'...

• There are resources and links to help you pray and worship on our 'Corona Virus Resources' page.
• Some churches are using Whatsapp Groups to keep in touch with members...
• Facebook pages are also being used to share news and prayer...
• The staff team are using 'Zoom' for meetings and at least one minister is planning online Easter Day Worship !

In short, these are challenging times but we are rising to the challenge safe in the knowledge "that in all things, God works together with those who love him to bring about what is good" (Romans 8.28)

5 Friends...

Many in our church family live on their own, and will doubtless feel very isolated. So, we would ask each you to telephone, email, text, Skype or Whatsapp at least 5 people a day. We know it's a 'big ask', but it's one way that we can all continue to be a community and care for each other.

With warmest best wishes and the assurance of our continuing prayer for us all.

Michael Beccato-Fischer on behalf of the Staff Team