As a first step to opening our churches for worship in the future, the Government and the National Church have issued guidance on re-opening for private prayer only. This is wonderful news for all of us who have found it very difficult not to have our church buildings open for prayer and contemplation during the pandemic. We are working through this guidance and preparing policies and risk assessments to ensure that we can open safely with consideration for those who want to visit our buildings for private prayer and those that look after our churches. Once we have been through this process, we will let you know what we are planning, so that you are aware of what to expect. Our first step will be the live streaming of Parish Communion on the 28th June. Soon after one church will re-open for private prayer once a week to begin with. The plan will be to open all of our churches in time.
Sara Mason, Chair Itchen Valley Parish Covid Committee