We are delighted to hear that the Government guidelines are allowing churches to now look at reopening under certain conditions. Bishop Sarah Mullaly has described the advice as “permissive, rather than prescriptive” and it is likely that it will look different for each church, according to their challenges.

For us at St John’s, the main challenge will be returning to public worship and observing safe social distancing. The health and safety of the congregation, clergy and staff remains our top priority and our current plan is to continue to provide online services until at least the end of August.  When we eventually return to worship in church, it is our intention to continue to provide online access to our services.

What does this mean for you?  Most importantly, we encourage Communities (formerly Clusters) to continue to meet electronically/remotely as so many have been doing.  As the Government guidelines allow it, and your own sense of what is right for you, you can start to meet with one another in gardens, parks or other open spaces.  We will be working towards opening the church for Communities to come together in pre-booked slots throughout the week.  These will not be services as such, but opportunities to come together, study the bible and pray.

What if you’re not part of a Community?  Please have a look at the Communities page on the website and contact the church office on office@stjohnscolchester.org.uk to be put in touch with any group you feel might be a good fit for you.  Or ask someone you know which community they are a part of and go along with them.

We hope that you understand our slow, cautious approach to the return to public worship.  We long for the day when we can all meet and worship together again in safety and in confidence.