Dear Parishioners

It looks as if reason has prevailed and although those attending a church service will have to wear face coverings, the person leading the service, reading the lesson or leading the prayers, will not have to do so while they are doing this.  This is a great relief and might possibly change some of your opinion on whether to attend or watch on zoom our service on Sunday.  So if you would still like to attend please do notify Beccy admin@itchenvalleychurches.org.

This has just appeared on the Church of England website

We understand that the Government intends to issue the following guidance in the coming days, subject to final approval:

 In England, face coverings are currently required by law to be worn in shops, supermarkets, indoor transport hubs, indoor shopping centres, banks, building societies, post offices and on public transport.

From 8 August, face coverings are also required by law to be worn in a greater number of public indoor settings including places of worship, museums, galleries, cinemas and public libraries.

There are valid exemptions for some individuals and groups not to wear a face covering in these settings. In particular, those who are leading services or events in a place of worship, and those who assist them (for instance by reading, preaching, or leading prayer) do not always need to wear a face covering, although one should be worn especially if physical distancing cannot be maintained (i.e. distributing consumables). This exemption does not apply to worshippers, who should wear face coverings consistent with the requirements for any other public space.

Best wishes

Alex

Rector