Back to 'Plan A' and what it means for Bishop Ridley Church 

The Church of England has today published its updated Covid-19 guidance for churches, as England prepares to move away from ‘Plan B’ restrictions on Thursday 27 January.

The guidance acknowledges that, while we may be moving from a pandemic towards an endemic situation, caution is still required and that, 'places of worship may decide to bring in optional precautions based on their own risk assessment to protect others and themselves.'

Some of our guidelines for worship at Bishop Ridley Church have been revised, you can read about these below. We recognise that everyone has a different set of criteria by which they judge whether they feel safe in different situations. We want every one to feel as comfortable as possible so please continue with any precautions you feel are necessary. 

Sunday Services will be at 9am and 10.30am.

Guidelines
In line with government guidelines, please do not come to the church - or leave home - if you or someone you live with has any of the following:

a high temperature
a new, continuous cough
a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste. 

Upon arrival at church, you will be greeted by one of our welcome team. Please speak to them if you have any concerns or queries. We recommend using our hand sanitiser when you enter the building. You are not required to wear a mask but feel free to wear one if you wish. If you would like to continue social distancing please take two 'please do not sit here' sheets on the welcome table when you come into church then place them on the seats either side of you in church. This will indicate to others not to sit near you. 

Our services...
Music - we will continue to play recorded worship music however you can stand and sing your praise. 
Bibles - If you wish to use a Bible, we encourage you to bring your own rather as communal ones will not be available.
Paper - there won't be any printed orders of service, everything will be on the screen.  We also won't be giving out news sheets.
Holy Communion - only wafers will be administered.  Each person receiving communion will be given a wafer which Rev Mark will have dipped into the Common Cup using tweezers.  Rev Mark will still give a blessing to anyone who wishes to receive it. 
Offering - we are grateful for any donations, we will continue to run on a cashless basis for the present. Therefore, we encourage donations by standing order, direct transfer,  online payment,  card reader in the entrance hall or cheque. Read more.
Prayer Ministry - unfortunately we can't do this in our usual way instead, please speak to Rev Mark if you would like prayer after the service.

Thank you for your patience as we seek keep church as safe as possible for everyone.