Author: faithrootsdw

Updated information for church COVID risk assessments

Here’s my regular update on what the picture is looking like in terms of COVID-19 to help church leaders think through their risk assessments when planning for church services. The most important and encouraging information is that the growth in cases seems to have slowed a little as the Euros’ effect seems to be easing… Continue reading Updated information for church COVID risk assessments

The Government, COVID and a tricky call about reopening

So, how do you feel about the decision to end COVID-19 regulations on the 19th July? Some of you are no doubt excited and relieved to see those measures coming to an end, others perhaps frustrated that the end didn’t come sooner and many feeling extremely anxious, concerned that this has come too soon and… Continue reading The Government, COVID and a tricky call about reopening

One rule for them, one rule for the rest of us?

This weekend it was announced that the Health Secretary Sajid Javid had contracted COVID-19. As he had been in a recent meeting with the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer, it was assumed that they would need to self-isolate in line with the COVID rules. Well, on Sunday morning it was announced that they… Continue reading One rule for them, one rule for the rest of us?

Singing Lessons

In recent posts I’ve suggested we might need to be cautious about the assumption that the 19th July will immediately inaugurate the return of full churches, no masks and a return to congregational singing. I suggested that an interim step might be to encourage different parts of the congregation to sing either a whole song… Continue reading Singing Lessons

Update on Churches, COVID-19 reopening and risk assessments

Here’s a further update from my post earlier this week as you seek to prepare for post 19th July worship.  The first crucial piece of information is that the Government have now published updated guidance for churches.  You can read it here. The key things to  note are that As expected, churches are encouraged to… Continue reading Update on Churches, COVID-19 reopening and risk assessments

Misunderstood? When symbols are taken the wrong way

Last Sunday we watched with bated breath as the England players stood up to take their penalties.  I must admit that as soon as I saw Marcus Rashford do that fancy wiggle and pause that I thought we were in trouble.  My reaction was “what were you thinking?” And I’m sure I’m not alone. His… Continue reading Misunderstood? When symbols are taken the wrong way

Risk Management decisions and in person worship post July 19th re-opening

Sunday 25th July will be a crunch date in the calendar. This is the first Sunday after the formal relaxation of all COVID restrictions in England. It means that there will no longer be regulations and fines relating to failure to wear masks or socially distance at a church gathering. Singing will also be allowed… Continue reading Risk Management decisions and in person worship post July 19th re-opening

The risks for churches post 19th July

After the 19th July, the Government will remove all remaining COVID-19 measures. This means that there will not be legal restrictions such as social distancing or wearing face masks. But the Government and the national health/science advisors have been clear that COVID hasn’t gone away. It’s not that those measures don’t matter anymore, it’s that… Continue reading The risks for churches post 19th July

Murderers at heart (Genesis 4)

In Genesis 1-2, the origins of humanity are described. Mankind is made in God’s image and so man and woman have the breath of God within them. God blesses them and provides for them. They have meaning and purpose as they are told to fill and subdue the earth. And yet in Geneis 3 we… Continue reading Murderers at heart (Genesis 4)