Dear friends,
As you all know the last few days have seen a significant increase in England of those being diagnosed with Coronavirus.
Our Bishop, Nick, wrote to all the clergy of the diocese on Monday both to advise us of the seriousness of the situation and what we might do as churches to limit its impact.
Therefore, having discussed the matter with the Standing Committee of our PCC we have agreed to take the following steps based on the current advice being issued.
- Place (when available) alcohol hand wash at the entrance to the church, on the credence table and in the sacristy
- Refrain from sharing ‘a sign of peace’ with a handshake
- Refrain from intinction (or dipping) the wafer into the wine
At present the common cup has not been suspended therefore it is possible to receive the sacrament in both kinds. However, those who prefer may just receive communion in one kind.
Whilst this may seem an overly cautious response, we need to take seriously the advice we have been given and act accordingly.
I hope that you will understand the need to take this course of action.
With love and prayers,
— Matthew Peat, Vicar