From Monday 19th July 2021, as you know the majority of restrictions were lifted with the Government urging caution and encouraging people to remain vigilant in light of increasing levels of Covid infection nationally. We recognize that whilst some welcome the lifting of restrictions, others remain anxious. We have a duty of care to all people especially the most vulnerable. We would like to update you about what the arrangements will be in our churches as we continue to play our part responsibly in reducing the spread of Covid 19:Facemasks - facemasks protect others not just yourself and are part of what it means to love your neighbour in these challenging times. We expect all people to continue to wear a facemask in our church buildings unless they have a valid exemption (please show your lanyard to the steward/churchwarden on entry). Social distancing - 1.5 metres with seating for family bubbles available every other pew row in the main body of the church. family groupings and individuals will still be seated by a steward/churchwarden. Hand sanitiser - this will still be available on entry, on the pews and on exit. We encourage you to use this please. Singing - from the beginning of August, singing will only be possible whilst wearing a facemask. Holy Communion - still in one kind only. Refreshments after services - still be reviewed at a later date. The above arrangements in our church buildings cover all services including WEDDINGS, FUNERALS AND CHRISTENINGS. There is no need to book in for Sunday services now. If you are feeling unwell, please don't come to the services in the interest of everyone - I know it seems obvious, but sometimes it needs saying too. We will of course be monitoring what is happening in terms of Covid infection rates as we continue to journey through the pandemic and will keep you informed of any changes. We hope this will enable everyone including the most vulnerable to feel comfortable, secure and safe in our church buildings
Creating Easter Gardens together with great imagination and enthusiasm - colourful, edible......check out the photos! The file below contains more photos. As we created our gardens we shared together and re-membered the Easter Story
In line with the present lockdown restrictions, our churches are able to remain open for 'Private Prayer': time for yourself to come along to our peaceful buildings to be still and quiet, to pause, reflect, remember & if you wish light a candle. This will take place each Saturday during lockdown in both our churches between 11-12 noon. To keep everyone safe and secure, we ask you to book your time by ringing Sue for St Simon & St Jude in Rainworth (07890674665) & Kath at St Mary's, Blidworth (07831225602). Covid guidelines apply: Hands (sanitize on arrival and leaving church), Face (facemasks must be worn unless you have a valid exemption) & space (maintain 2 metre distancing at all times). We are not able, at present, to be open for church services with a congregation gathered in our buildings but are continuing to meet on Zoom at 10am each Sunday and through Facebook & YouTube premiered and streamed services. we continue to pray and care for our communities, check in on each other and to help each other in ways possible. We continue to support families through funerals and partner with other organisations to meet the needs of our communities. The church is not just the buildings, it is the people, the living stones who continue to serve God and the people of our communities.
