Following the directive from the Church of England, in conjunction with the government recommendations on the Coronavirus, public worship has been suspended at St Columba’s with immediate effect, for the foreseeable future.
This suspension of worship does not mean that we are permanently closed – we will try and meet the needs of the people in the parish by directing them to online prayer and worship resources, and we will be regularly updating the our online presence to this end.
Likewise, the Church building will open on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday for private prayer, between 10.30 am and 11.30 am, and I would encourage people to attend as we pray for those who suffer, the nation and all those in authority dealing with this pandemic. All current hygiene protocols will be maintained during this time.
These measures will come with a profound sense of regret, particularly as we we move towards the conclusion of Lent and look forward to Holy Week and Easter. We, however, will remain steadfast in prayer and this time, conscious that it is moments such as these that God's power is made visible.
These measures will necessarily mean that our Lent course, 'Exploring Matthew' will be suspended, as will the running of Columba's Cafe.
Please join me in praying:
Please do be in touch if we can support you, and please help those around you, particularly the vulnerable at this difficult time.
Please check online for regular updates.
With the assurance of our prayers.
The Vicar & PCC