Re-opening of Church

Dear Friends,

We have so missed having our churches open for services and for prayer but concern for the well-being of both individuals and the community has kept us closed.

However, (hurrah), after cleaning and risk assessing the buildings, and looking at the capacity of individuals, we believe we are at the point where we can re-open, in a limited way, from the first Sunday in September.

During this time we have hoped and prayed that you are all keeping well in body, mind and spirit; and that you will continue to do so. We are aware that many people feel understandably anxious about mixing in groups but we wish to reassure you that we have done our very best to ensure the safety of everyone who enters any of our churches, whilst recognising that risk cannot ever be totally eliminated.

To that end, do please read the information on the Ratcliffe-on-the-Wreake: St. Botolph page as to what to expect if you come to a service and to check what is on in your village and others. We hope that knowing how things will proceed will embolden you that it is safe to return. For some of you, it may still be too soon, and I would encourage you to contact me about the services that will continue on Zoom. If you do not have access by computer or smart phone, you can use your landline phone to dial in and connect that way.

We look forward to catching up with people in 3D, and hope to welcome anyone who wants a space to reflect on all that has happened over these last few months. We continue to pray that we can gradually return to normal and that we will get through this pandemic soon.

All of us need others, ‘No one is an island’ to slightly misquote John Donne. The Christian faith is built on community and we are here for each person in our villages, irrespective of personal belief. If we can help in any way, please do be in contact.

Blessings,

Mary

Rev’d Sr. Mary A'Herne-Smith C.A. email: [email protected] phone: 01664 420193 Workdays Sunday -Wednesday