Latest Covid Update
Canon Paul Gargaro, the Diocesan Coordinator, has sent a message concerning the implications of the changes to the restrictions in place for Coronavirus as announced by the First Minister.
Dear all,
As you may have seen the First Minister today confirmed that from Monday 17th May we will move to Level 2 from Level 3. This is welcome news and a sign that we are progressing towards normality.
There are no major changes that affect worship and no changes to the 50 capacity at weddings and funerals.
Singing
From Monday 17th May more than one person may sing at religious services. We do not yet have any detail about what that might involve or what precautions (screens, etc.), might still be needed. I will, of course, update you when more details are published. This does not though mean congregational singing will be allowed – the Government has said that it is not yet time for that.
Hugging
The news are making much of the ability to hug each other again or at least shake hands. This only applies in private dwellings or gardens between close family and friends. It does not mean that we can begin to shake hands at the sign of peace or as people enter/leave church etc.
Social Distancing
The Government are reconsidering the question of social distancing and will set out their conclusions in the next few weeks. This might involve changing the 2m distancing, and if it does that will be a major increase in the capacity of our churches, but for now we just need to wait and see what comes of it.
Halls
6 people from 3 households can now meet indoors in halls or presbyteries.
Licenced halls can now serve alcohol indoors, following all the rules on hospitality and with a 2230 curfew.
All sporting activity is now allowed apart from adult indoor contact sports.
Most recreational activities are now allowed in halls for adults and children, following the specific rules for each type of activity, but non-professional performing arts (music, amateur dramatics, etc.) and dancing are still prohibited.
The guidance on activities at Level 2 can be found here https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-protection-levels/pages/protection-level-2/, but note that it can take some time for all the pages to be fully updated.
With best wishes
Canon Paul Gargaro
Diocesan Coordinator