Dear friends
Re-opening of church buildings for private prayer and reflection
I hope this letter finds you and your loved ones well.
As many of you will be aware the government announced last week that church buildings could open for individuals and households to come for a time of private prayer and reflection.
I know that for many people, although there have been blessings in joining with on line worship, the opportunity to spend time in much loved, sacred spaces is very much welcomed.
I have been working with the Churchwardens and others, to whom I am extremely grateful, to ensure that both St Andrew’s and Holy Cross can re-open with all the necessary safeguards in place. Thanks to a team of dedicated cleaners, we have been able to make both churches ready to welcome those who would like to come and pray and I am delighted to inform you that with effect from next week, this will be possible.
I have noted below the days and times that the churches will be open.
St Andrew’s Fridays 11.00am – 12 noon ( with effect from 26th June)
Holy Cross Tuesdays 11.00am – 12 noon ( with effect from 23rd June)
Holy Cross Saturdays 2.00pm – 3.00pm (with effect from 27th June)
There will be welcomers on hand at both churches to guide you through the way in which the buildings can be used and there will be supplies of hand sanitiser and anti-bacterial wipes available.
We are unable to use the church bibles but you are welcome to bring your own bible as an aid to prayer if you would like to do so.
Each church has been set out to ensure appropriate social distancing and I would ask for your understanding in this as the buildings have by necessity had to have some areas cordoned off and the interiors won’t look quite the same as they did when we last gathered to worship together.
We are not yet able to hold services for public worship but we will continue to meet on Facebook live and also via our YouTube channel on Sundays at 10.00am and Wednesdays at 9.30am for Services of Holy Communion, and on Thursday at 9.00pm for Compline/Night Prayer.
As soon as services are permitted to be held in church I will of course let you know.
In the meantime if anyone has any concerns about the re-opening or indeed any other matter that I may be able to help with, please do not hesitate to contact me.
In the meantime please be assured that you remain in my prayers and I look forward to the time when we can once more meet to worship our mighty God.
Blessings
Jane
Revd. Canon Jane Richards
Vicar – Parish of Basildon, St Andrew’s with Holy Cross
Area Dean – Basildon Deanery