Dear All,

Its been a while since I’ve been in touch, and that’s been a good thing since it means that there have not been any changes that we’ve had to adopt. The Government have not amended the “Places of Worship” guidance since August and that has allowed us to carry on and consolidate our practice without constantly worrying about changing things.

A couple of people have been in touch asking about the Deputy First Minister’s statement yesterday about possible increase restrictions and how this might affect us. Unfortunately the statement was very vague about details, simply promising more information next week, so the short answer is that we don’t know yet if and how it might affect us, however the Bishops’ Conference’s advisers say that there is no indication – at this stage – that places of worship might be affected by any changes. For the moment we can just carry on as we are, but obviously I’ll update you in anything changes.

I’ve also been asked about Christmas – for just now all I can advise is that you keep planning in line with the current guidance, but be ready to change things if needed.

I’m sorry I can’t offer more detail, but if/when we learn more from the Government and/or from our expert advisers I will pass it on to you. Hopefully though I’ll have nothing to say!

With best wishes

Canon Paul Gargaro

Diocesan Coordinator