Hey Church.
We just wanted to give you an update on our four locations for this coming Sunday (September 20th).
As we’re sure you’ve seen, this week the UK Government has brought some changes into law regarding social gatherings. The ‘rule of six’ is now in place across the country, limiting social interaction. In addition, in the past 12 hours some regional restrictions have been put in place across the North-East, which include Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland (towns in County Durham).
We want to make clear that we take these guidelines very seriously and this week some of our Management Trustees met (along with Campus Pastors) to consider any implications.
As part of this process we have thoroughly reviewed our risk assessments and policies regarding our socially-distant church services.
We have adapted and improved these to consider the safety needs of everyone, especially those in high-risk categories.
It is with great joy that we can tell you that Church is still open across all four of our locations!
The Government has made clear in it’s guidelines to places of worship that our Sunday services are exempt from all the above restrictions, provided our buildings adhere to Covid-secure regulations. We can assure you that great effort and expense has been taken to make sure each of our buildings are safe, secure and spacious, in a way that goes above and beyond what is required.
September is our Vision Month as a Church, which is always a significant time. Now more than ever, it’s important we feed our faith, in a time when we could be consumed with negativity and fear. Church has always been an environment of faith and breakthrough. Something that is so vitally needed for all of us in this season.
So, we’d love you to join us for Church this Sunday. At the time of posting, we still have some spaces left in all locations, but seats are going fast. Hopefully you understand the need for us to limit these spaces, to provide a place for you to come with confidence to worship and receive in the House of God.
If you’re nervous, living internationally, or not able to come for whatever reason, then Church Online is here for you! Join us at 11.30am this Sunday on YouTube or Facebook, for part three of our Vision Month series.
Wherever you are, however you feel, don’t allow fear or uncertainty to limit your life. It’s time to Believe Again!
August 16th
Preparation Measures
As we continue with our phased return to physical gatherings, your safety and wellbeing continues to be our top priority.
So, in line with the Government Guidelines for Places of Worship and for your protection, we have implemented a number of changes across all our venues.
- All venues and activities have been risk assessed.
- Venues have been thoroughly deep cleaned and disinfected.
- We have increased regular cleaning, and are introducing cleaning between back to back services.
- PPE has been provided to all staff and teams.
- Sanitisation stations have been installed in all areas around the building including entrances, exits and toilets.
- One way systems have been implemented where appropriate.
- Socially distanced seating has been implemented.
- Staff and teams have been fully trained.
As we’re sure you will understand, we care deeply for the heath and safety of our congregations, that is why we have worked hard to implement the changes we have made across all our locations, so that you can feel confident in attending a physical gathering, serving on a team or entering our buildings.
All our love
Ben and Gale
Senior Pastors