Author: faithrootsdw

Policing temptation with what we wear

Social media is a dangerous place to go if you are worried about causing offense. Twitter in particular is a place where the compression of communication can lead to a lack of nuance and much misunderstanding. Of course it works well if your desire is to be provocative. But plenty of pastors have come unstuck… Continue reading Policing temptation with what we wear

Keep the Nightclubs closed

Where is the biggest risk going to be over the next few weeks as we move out of the final stages of restrictions? I suspect it won’t be in churches as we move back to normal worship, it is clear that churches are seeking to do this responsibly. It won’t be in your local supermarket.… Continue reading Keep the Nightclubs closed

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