Lockdown Information as from January 5th
As we now move into a full lockdown, the UK Government has seen fit to allow public worship to continue, but in a safe and sensible way. As your parish priest, and following discussions with the Churchwardens today it is our hope that we continue to offer a simplified regular worship pattern here at Holy Trinity Church.
As your parish priest, it is my paramount concern for people to be safe and protected from the virus, yet I am also well aware that many people need even more spiritual support and the healing power of the Sacraments during this time of lockdown.
The pattern of worship will be as follows:
Parish Mass will be Sung every Sunday at 9:30AM
Wednesday Low Mass will be offered with homily at 6:00PM
There will be no Daily Office in recited in Church, but at The Rectory at 9:00AM and 5:00PM each day as normal.
All Sunday worship will continue to “live streamed” on Facebook.
A Statement from the Bishop of London
Following Monday’s statement by the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, detailing new restrictions in England to control the spread of Covid-19, The Bishop of London who chairs the Church of England’s Covid Recovery Group, said: “The Prime Minister’s words tonight underline the severity of the situation for the country, as the virus continues to spread rapidly. At a time like this, the Church is here to offer comfort and spiritual support to everyone. We have a duty to care for each other, but particularly those who are vulnerable or who may be most at risk.
“The Government has chosen not to suspend public worship in England at this time and we will continue to follow the guidance and ensure that churches remain as safe as possible. The Government guidance on the safe use of places of worship makes clear that those attending a place of worship must not mingle with anyone outside their household or support bubble.
“However, some may feel that it is currently better not to attend in person, and there will be parishes which decide to offer only digital services for the time-being. Clergy who have concerns, and others who are shielding, should take particular care and stay at home. “I would urge everyone in our churches to pray for those on the front line in our public services – the NHS and those working in social care, for schools and many others on whom we depend; and for parents and carers of children at this anxious and stressful time.
“There is hope. The vaccination programme is underway and, as Christians, we have a deeper hope in God that comforts us beyond fear itself. As we have been remembering this Christmas Season, even in the midst of our darkest fears, that hope brings light.”