Organised by Marie Curie, the National Day of Reflection looks to reflect on our collective loss, support those who've been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future. People of all faiths and none are being invited to keep a minute's silence at 12 noon on 23rd March. You can download a poster with prayer for use on the day below. Church bells will toll out across the nation including at Stoke Minster.The Minster will be open between 11.30 am and 2.00 pm allowing those who wish to drop by for private prayer, reflection and candle lighting.
Stoke Minster is reopening for worship from Mothering Sunday, 14th March, following a meeting of the Church Council. The church has been closed since Christmas aside for funerals but with the return of schools from 8th March and progress in vaccination, the church will again be opening its doors for public worship.Caution is still needed and COVID restrictions remain in place including the wearing of face masks, social distancing within the church. While this does not mark a return to worship as practiced before the pandemic (there's still no singing for instance), it is a welcome development.Services will continue to be available to view at home for those who are shielding (available here) as well as using our dial in service.
The Government has announced that Stoke-on-Trent has moved to the high COVID alert level (Tier 4) from Thursday 31 December. The City Council has advised on various measures (see below) however, public worship can continue. However, we have taken the decision to suspend regular worship (on Sundays and Wednesdays) for the time being as we assess the implications of the latest restrictions. Worship will be continue to be shared online on Sundays.
