Church of England releases Covid guidance in time for Monday’s relaxation of rules
by Cara Bentley, Premier:
The Church of England has released guidance on singing, children’s groups and serving food ahead of Monday’s changes in England.
On 19th July, most legal restrictions, such as social distancing, in England are due to disappear, however many businesses have decided to still enforce mask wearing.
Apart from the Health Secretary announcing that singing would be allowed to return, no government guidance has yet been released about how places of worship are allowed to adapt. However, the Church of England’s House of Bishops has produced a document answering expected questions.
Masks
The Church of England does not instruct churches to enforce mask-wearing but advises: “Although it will no longer be a legal requirement to wear a face covering, the government has stated that it ‘expects and recommends’ that people wear face coverings in crowded and enclosed settings to protect themselves and others.
“Churches may well decide to continue to ask people to use them and/or to maintain social distancing, especially during busy events. Although such a request will not be legally enforceable it can be positioned as a way of easing the transition back towards pre-pandemic ways of worshipping whilst showing consideration for others.”
Singing
The Church of England has confirmed that “Yes, from 19th July singing and musical performances of all kinds are allowed in churches, including congregational singing, and choirs and worship groups can perform without legal limitations.”
It warns that singing or raised voices can increase the risk and that ventilation, singing outside or wearing a face covering would limit the risk.
“Singing (and generally meeting) outdoors is a safer way of gathering, and where this is possible it could be a good alternative to meeting indoors.”
Bell ringers are no longer restricted by social distancing either.
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