We've given a lot of thought to this next phase - here's our guide to coming to services in the coming weeks.
Coming to Church
We’ve been asked by the government to carry on venue-tracing which means keeping details for those coming along to the church building for the purposes of Track-and-Trace where necessary. Therefore, we’re asking everyone coming along to the church building to book in advance or, when coming along, to make use of the NHS QR code or sign-in sheet at the door.
We won’t have limits on numbers at this stage for any church services (including weddings, funerals and baptisms).
We will also be increasing the ventilation in the building by leaving the main church doors open where possible.
Masks
Although mask-wearing in most places is not a legal requirement, we are asked as a venue to manage risks. Given that we are going to be singing again as a congregation, combined with the potential for closer contact with each other, we are asking that people continue to wear masks whilst attending services.
Seating
In parts of the church we will be opening up more seating to allow us a bit more space should more people like to come along. In order to provide for those who are vulnerable or would just prefer a bit more space we are also providing the following:
· Specified seating zones where social distancing is maintained.
· Signage available asking people to leave seats next to them empty.
Singing
We are so pleased to be able to sing again in church! In order to reduce risks, we are asking people to wear a mask for the time being, though. Please also be sensitive to those around you.
Kids' Church
There is no need to book in advance for Kids’ Church, please drop your child at the relevant group before the service starts, ensuring that they are registered with the team. Children will therefore not be in the church for the start of the service (unless not in groups).
On weeks where we are celebrating Holy Communion, children will be brought into church by the team in order to accompany their parents/carers.
The Peace
For the time being we would ask that, when sharing a sign of Peace with each other, we do not move around the building. We would also ask that everyone remains sensitive to the wishes of others around them before making any form of contact, in case this is unwelcome.
Teas and Coffees
We hope soon, to be able to offer hospitality in the form of refreshments after the service. In order to reduce risks, we will limit the number of people in the kitchen to 2, so please do not enter this area unless on the team. Those in the kitchen will be responsible for arranging the refreshments on trays that will be brought to serving tables in the hall.
We will not at this time use the serving hatch, so as to avoid crowding.