Dear All
This weekend sees a big easing of the restrictions across the country except if you live in Leicester of course!
In recent months our parting words have been “Stay Safe” those words convey our wish to each other. They are also a reminder that the risk of infection has not gone away. As permission is granted to ‘open up’, if we move too slowly we are deemed cautious, if we move too quickly we are cavalier. Whatever action we take it must be considered.
The guidance from the Government sets the boundaries, the guidelines, but local context determines the detail and so there is variation in interpretation and application. Clarity and consistency not always obvious. Some churches will open, some will stay closed and say “Not yet” and all will be correct.
As we calculate capacity with 2 metre social distancing, consider ‘first come first served’ and/or booked seats, a register of attendees with contact details, one way systems, accept no singing or socialising and a shorter service, it is not opening for worship as we knew it.
The Government in its guidelines remind us that ‘people aged 70 or older, regardless of medical conditions, are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible and to minimise contact with others outside their household.’
Our personal decisions affect those around us, increasing and diminishing risk to ourselves and to each other.
In time, and with the hindsight of history, we will know if we got it right but we ask your prayers and patience as we continue to plan for the safe reopening of our churches.
Readings for the week commencing 5th July – Bread of Life
| Sunday | Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 | Psalm 145 | *STF 322 | How sweet the name of Jesus sounds in a believer’s ear! |
| Monday | John 6:16-29 | Psalm 70 | *STF 303 | I know that my Redeemer lives |
| Tuesday | John 6:30-40 | Psalm 71:1-16 | *STF 713 | Show me how to stand for justice |
| Wednesday | John 6:41-51 | Psalm 71:17–24 | *STF 712 | Put peace into each other’s hands |
| Thursday | John 6:52-59 | Psalm 72 | *STF 150 | This is the day of rest |
| Friday | John 6:60-71 | Psalm 73:1-14 | *STF 109 | In the darkness of the still night |
| Saturday | John 7:1-13 | Psalm 73:15-28 | *STF 482 | There is no moment of my life |
Remember you are never alone. We are never more than a phone call or email away. We Please keep in touch and keep safe.
Peace be with you
Stephen
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