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Vicar’s Letter – 12th January 2021

It is with great sadness that I write these words, however, after careful consideration by the PCC and contributions by members of our congregation,  we have made the decision to suspend all public worship at St Mary’s for the time being in the best interests of serving our community.  This is in response to the Government’s decision to place the country into lockdown on the 4th January 2021.

Places of worship are able to remain open under the rules of lockdown but due to the extreme situation we find ourselves in at the moment we questioned whether just because we could open, we should open.

It is heart-breaking to me and to many but it would be more heart-breaking to know that we had contributed to spreading the virus further. The risks at this point in time are simply too high for those who are in the most vulnerable categories.  We have a responsibility to set an example and protect those things that we love, our community, our families, our friends, and to support our government, our NHS workers and all those who continue to put themselves at risk by continuing to work shop workers, delivery drivers etc.

The building is closed but the church is very much open as we continue to worship together from our own home – we the people are the Church.

All Services will take place as normal and will be streamed and advertised on our facebook page www.facebook.com/stmarywoodkirk.  Alternatively a link to the live stream will also be published on A Church Near You page.  Services are also placed on our webpage www.stmarywoodkirk.org.

Pastorally, we are here if you need anything please do not hesitate to make contact with me on 07539466724.

It goes without saying that we will be carrying out funerals in church at this time and offering support to those who have lost loved ones (we will follow government guidelines and restrictions on numbers and covid secure buildings etc).

My prayers are with you during this difficult time, be safe and please follow the guidelines.

Love
Sharon
Vicar, St Mary’s Church, Woodkirk