RE-OPENING CHURCHES
Churches which are able to meet strict safety measures can re-open for private prayer and for weddings and funerals. From Sunday 19 July, churches can re-open for services, including baptisms and Holy Communion, subject to strict safety regulations. Church halls can also re-open from July 20.
This guidance is permissive – it is not required of any church.
The updated guidance and safety criteria for re-opening for public worship will be published on the Church in Wales website early next week (w/c 13 July).
In this diocese, the key body in making decisions will be the Mission Area Conference or Executive. There are certain risk assessments and procedures that must be in place before churches are opened. Mission Areas should develop a shared strategy towards the opening of church buildings in their area. Mission Area Leaders are asked to liaise with the archdeacons, as they develop plans and move forward.
- Download the Church in Wales self-assessment toolkit for re-opening churches
- Download a risk assessment form
- Download an instruction poster
- Download a symptoms poster
Weddings and funerals
In line with new government advice, the bench of bishops is updating its guidance on marriages and funerals. Preliminary notice is given at https://www.churchinwales.org.uk/en/clergy-and-members/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance/. In this diocese, any plans should be co-ordinated at mission area level, and submitted to the archdeacon for final approval.
Further material can be found on the Church in Wales website.