Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
When will the Church Buildings be open for Worship?
At the moment, only Holy Trinity is open for worship, for the 10.30am Sunday Eucharist
When will the other church buildings be reopening?
At the moment we don’t know when we will be able to reopen other church buildings due to the social distancing constraints. We are constantly reviewing the guidance on how to do this safely
Will the online service still be available if I don’t wish to worship in the church ?
Yes, all worship will also have a live online feed via “Zoom” and Facebook Live so people can still join us from home. Services will also be uploaded to our Youtube Page
Can I just turn up for a service?
No. Unfortunately, we have limited capacity as we have to observe strict social distancing measures in the church buildings. This means that we have to limit the number of people in the building at any one time and so to avoid disappointment we are asking people to book onto services. Only people who book onto services will be allowed in the buildings so we have track and trace records.
Can I go to the church building if I don’t feel well?
If you have any of the 3 main Covid-19 symptoms, a new continuous cough, a raised temperature or a loss of taste of smell you should not attend the church service and should instead take advice from the NHS.
Should I go to the church building if I am in a clinical vulnerable group?
This is up to you. However if you are concerned about your health you may wish to take advantage of the online service to join the worship instead.
How do I book seats for a service?
Reservations can be made from Monday each week using an online booking system called “Eventbrite”. You can find the link to the booking page on the parish website, the Facebook page, or by clicking here.
Can I attend every week?
Due to the limited number of seats available we are asking people to limit the number of times they attend church to give others a chance too.
How do I book seats for a service if I don’t have access to the internet ?
You can contact Christine Gilson on 01785 660010 and she can book places for you
I wish to go to a service with my family. Can they all book places at a service?
Yes, the booking system allows you to book for groups of 1, 2, or 4. Please book for the smallest number of people who are coming with you. Single attendees are welcome to attend but will need to book a double seat as this is the smallest unit available.
Will I need to wear a mask in church?
Yes. The latest guidance says people must wear masks in church unless they have an exemption on medical grounds. Please bring your own mask.
When I arrive at the church where do I go?
On arrival at the church you will need to queue outside the main doors at 2 metre intervals which will be marked by stakes in the ground. Please observe social distancing.
What happens when I enter the church?
A welcomer will invite you to sanitise your hands using sanitiser near the door. They will take your name and mark you off the list of attendees and will be able to tell you where to sit.
What can I expect to see in church?
The church will look rather different. Most of the pews have been taped off and cannot be used due to the social distancing restrictions. There will be tape on the floor to guide you where to walk. All the hymn books, kneelers and some of the furniture have been removed to make the area easier to clean.
What about social distancing
Please observe the 2 metre rule at all times and do not pass next to other people when you walk.
How will I know where to sit?
Your seats will be numbered. You should sit at the end of the pew near the wall or on a seat in the transept. If you are not wearing a mask due to a medical exemption you should sit directly next to the wall on a pew so you are as far away from others as possible. Some of the pews are not being used and you should avoid sitting on the masked-off areas of the pews that are in use
Will there be orders of service (liturgy) available?
There will be some liturgies available on arrival but you may wish to bring a mobile phone or tablet and follow the liturgy on there. There will be a “Q scan” code for you to scan to obtain the liturgy. If you take a printed liturgy you will need to take it away with you.
Can I light a candle in church?
Yes. Candles will be available just inside the entrance door. Please use a small taper which will be nearby but please take the taper away with you.
What else do I need to know?
We have had to remove the seat covers and kneelers from the pews so you may wish to bring your own cushion for your comfort
Will the toilets be available?
Yes. However, it is strictly one-in, one out of the kitchen/toilet area. Please clean the toilet before use, close the lid to flush and wash your hands well afterwards
Will I be able to receive communion in church?
Yes. Communion will be given in one kind. The wafer. You should listen to the advice of the presiding clergy when it is time for communion and follow their instructions. Only one household will be able to come to the altar at once. You will need to remove your mask to receive communion and sanitise your hands before and afterwards. You should not say “Amen” after receiving the wafer.
Will I be seen on the online service?
Yes. If you sit in the pews you will be visible on the Zoom” service. If you do not wish to be seen on the internet, please book a seat in the transept where you will not be seen.
Will the organ play in church?
Yes. The organ will play
Can I sing in church?
No. Current guidance prohibits singing as there is a risk of transmitting the virus.
Can I stay after church for a chat with neighbours after the service?
No. Please exit the church following the instructions at the end and leave promptly. The church will then be shut for 72 hours before being used again. You will be able to sanitise your hands as you leave if you so wish.
What can I do if I have any questions?
Please contact Father Graham on 01785 251057