Further information about lockdown
More information has been received concerning the change from Level 4 to Level 3 and the consequences this will have on the parishes.
Dear All,
Capacity – Public Worship
As you all know, from Monday coming, 26th April, we move to Level 3 and the 50 cap on attendance at public worship is lifted. Please make your parishioners aware that this does not – yet – mean a return to normal occupancy. We must still maintain 2m social distancing between individuals/household groups and this will mean that for most churches capacity is still very limited. If your capacity up to now has been less than 50 anyway then the increase will make no change to your situation.
Our regular attendees will be aware of the restrictions but with celebrations like First Communions approaching, where people might not be aware of the situation and want to invite lots of friends and family, we will need to be very clear about the numbers permitted.
We are also still required to obtain and keep contact details, ensure face coverings and hand sanitising, clean pews, etc., and if you are able to admit larger numbers you will need to make sure that all these tasks can still be done accurately and efficiently.
Capacity – Funerals and Weddings
Regardless of whether you might be able to admit larger numbers for public worship, attendance at weddings and funerals is limited to 50 (and will be less than that if your normal capacity is less than 50).
Halls
Once we move to Level 3 from Monday more activities will be permitted, especially for children. Children’s activities and sports can generally take place outdoors and indoors, subject to specific guidance for each type of activity. Higher risk activities – such as brass or woodwind or singing should not take place.
Adult activities are limited to hospitality, prayer, and similar activities, subject to all the guidance, especially social distancing and face coverings. Leisure activities such as bingo, recitals, arts/music, snooker, bowling, etc., should not take place yet.
With best wishes
Canon Paul Gargaro
Diocesan Coordinator