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LATEST UPDATES: The information below was amended on 30 May 2020. In light of the current coronavirus pandemic we will endeavour to keep you up-to-date with the latest advice for churches and parishes. We are asking all church ministers to regularly check these web pages, which we will try to update daily, as well as the continuously updated advice and 'frequently asked questions' (FAQs) on the national Church of England web pages here. You can see what the latest updates are by linking to the Version Log at the very bottom of that page. Bishops Martyn an Guli, and our Archdeacons, as well as the diocesan Mission and Ministry team, are supporting our clergy in prayer and practical matters, just as they are doing for their parishioners and communities. We will share a new video message from Bishop Martyn here every week as well as on our Facebook, Twitter and Youtube channels.
The House of Bishops has issued new guidelines for clergy and lay leaders about the use of church buildings. Full details can be found in this letter from our own Bishop of Leicester, Martyn Snow and Bishop of Loughborough, Guli Francis-Dehqani. In addition to this you can see the most recent letter from our Bishops here, in anticipation of further announcements soon. Weddings may not currently be conducted, and funerals are subject to new regulations, and will no longer take place in a church building. You can see more detail on the Church of England web pages here. There is additional information here. Baptisms may now only be conducted in an emergency, you can read more here. More digital and printable resources will also be added in coming days as well as webinars on how to livestream prayer or sermons and a variety of resources to support ministry. Safeguarding: The NSPCC has created a new webpage with information and advice for parents or carers who are worried a child or young person may be struggling with their mental health or has anxiety about coronavirus. The webpage includes information on: talking about feelings and worries; keeping in touch and balancing screen time; ways to create structure and routine; and helping to give children a sense of control. Read the information and advice: Talking to a child worried about coronavirus (COVID-19). Futher vital information about safeguarding can be found here. Please also see our Frequently Asked Questions below. Domestic Abuse: We know that for those experiencing domestic abuse, self isolating at home presents additional dangers. Women’s Aid have provided some specific safety advice. A number of churches have contacted us looking for clarity on the legal regulations around streaming services. Here's the guidance given by the Church of England's national Digital Team. Regular updates from the Church of England: Please keep an eye onthe national Church of England coronavirus web pages here for the latest guidance and advice. Everybody Welcome Online: Here’s some really useful analysis and reflection on how churches have been using streaming, social media and other new technologies over the last few weeks. While we’re aware that not all churches have the resources (or broadband coverage!) to do “virtual” church, these are some detailed early observations which many will find useful, and includes suggestions on how to make online church as welcoming and visitor-friendly as possible If your church uses Zoom, please see these updated guidelines and accompanying consent form which include information on obtaining permissions and safeguarding implications (with some particular reference to those under the age of 16) for Zoom meetings and gatherings:
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