All Saints Church is discussing whether the request for everyone (except those medically exempt) to wear face-coverings at its main Sunday services should now be discontinued. A show of hands of the congregation last Sunday 1st May revealed that about 65% of those present would be comfortable if face-coverings were no longer worn; about 20% wished to retain face-coverings and the remainder did not indicate, or felt they wanted more time to consider.
The Church Council (PCC) discussed these findings at its meeting on Tuesday 3rd May and decided not to remove the request to wear face-coverings immediately but instead allow more time for questions and reflection. The PCC was mindful of those who would feel insecure coming to services without the general reduction of risk that face-coverings provide. It is aware also that a small number of members of the church are staying away from services because, whilst not medically exempt, they find wearing a face-covering for up to one hour very uncomfortable.
Canon David Hodgson, Rector, said: ” I am pleased that as a worshipping community All Saints has been conscientious and consistent about ensuring a safe and secure space during the pandemic, maintaining risk-reducing practices including wearing face-coverings as a general rule, and so offering reassurance that our church services have been safe to attend. We do recognise that now, with widespread vaccination in our area, and changing public attitudes to the virus, asking church members to continue wearing face-masks in worship is increasingly out of step with other similar activities or events in the wider community. But before we remove the request we would like more conversation about this in the church membership. An opportunity will arise at the Annual Meeting of church members on 15th May.”
