We asked, you answered

We wanted to hear parishioners' hopes and concerns as we transition into in-person worship. We also wanted to know what you would like to retain from this time of on-line church. This is what we heard.

You appreciate live streamed worship and would like us to keep doing it. You also like Richard's A View from the Vicar. When it comes to re-opening the building, you are most concerned about our vulnerable members. You are worried about how we will maintain physical distancing, and about important but now risky practices such as singing and taking communion. You don't want anyone who can't attend in person to feel left out. You hope that when we can gather in person, we will do so safely and that people will return. Some of you let us know that you will be staying home for a while longer.

Thank you for all the feedback. Safety is clearly top of mind. The Vicar and wardens are currently working on a plan which parish council will review before it goes to the Archbishop for approval. The plan is detailed, and includes provisions for physical distancing, extra cleaning, and one-time-use bulletins. We will have music but we won't be singing for a while yet. We won't have communion until we know that we can do it safely. Our tentative re-opening date is June 21st.

And we will maintain on-line worship and other offerings. We know that some parishioners are not yet ready to gather in larger groups. We are going to do our best to be there for all our members, whether you are participating from home or in the building.