Fr Andrew's pastoral letter is reproduced here:

Dear Friends

This weekend it has been brought home to us that the coronavirus pandemic is far from over and we must all continue to take precautions such as social distancing, observing government regulations on meeting other people and maintain increased hygiene practices. With enhanced restrictions coming in to effect on our doorstep throughout Preston, along with the wearing face coverings in many additional public places, including in church backed by law, you will recall that I preached last week that it is the responsibility of all communities to work to defeat the virus.

What do I have to do when I come to church?

From 8 August 2020. face coverings are required by law to be worn in a greater number of public indoor settings including places of worship, museums, galleries, cinemas and public libraries.

There are valid exemptions for some individuals and groups to not wear a face covering in these settings. In particular, those who are leading services or events in a place of worship, and those who assist them (for instance by reading, serving, preaching, or leading prayer) do not always need to wear a face covering, although one should be worn especially if physical distancing cannot be maintained. This exemption does not apply to worshippers, who should wear face coverings consistent with the requirements for any other public space.  Please bring your face covering with you when you come to church as we do not have a supply of spare masks.

Ongoing measures

I realise this is an uncomfortable consequence of local outbreaks of Covid-19 having to be containing throughout the country.  It is difficult to see a rapid end to all restrictions so we must all play our part in reducing the risk of infection spreading.  As a result, some people will feel unable to return to church in the immediate future and it is my wish, the wish of the church wardens and the PCC that everyone in the congregation is given access to our worship and the eucharist.  Therefore, we will maintain contact with you and provide two opportunities of streamed worship each week, at 11:30 on Wednesday and 10:15 on Sunday.

Please let me know if you have any concerns or questions about the change in regulations. In the the meantime, keep safe.

Yours in Christ

Fr Andrew