PUBLIC WORSHIP AT ST NICHOLAS

We have taken great care to ensure that you can join us as safely as possible at the Eucharist and other services in the week.  Government guidance is constantly evolving, so things may change from one week to the next – please read our weekly email to stay informed. 

Currently

• We have a maximum capacity of 50 worshippers (at 2 m distance).
• The 8am Sunday service is less busy than 10.30.
• There is no access to the car park.
• There is restricted access to the toilets after mass, but not through the community room. Please speak to a sidesperson or warden, who will let you in through the back entrance.
• A pew sheet, NHS test & trace form and pen are on each chair.
• Test & trace information is retained for this purpose only, and disposed of securely after 21 days.
• Congregational singing is not permitted. To aid us in our worship, there is a cantor and organ music at the 10.30
• Communion, in one kind only, will be brought to your seat in silence. The hosts will be in a covered container, and the clergy will sanitise their hands before distribution.
• Children’s Liturgy takes place in the churchyard when held; the children’s area is closed.

 We ask you to

• arrive in good time for mass, as there may be a queue or delay on entry. Doors open at 10am for the 10.30 Sunday Eucharist, but 15 minutes before start time for other services.
• Use the hand sanitiser provided on entry (and exit, if you wish).
• Wear a face covering over nose and mouth all the time you are in the building. This is now mandatory, except for those with medical exemptions
• Go straight to your seat, as directed by a steward, and avoid moving around the building. We fill the North aisle first to lessen people crossing each other. 
• Remain in your seat at the end of the service until directed to an exit by stewards, then leave the building promptly.
• Take your pew sheet, test & trace form and pen with you.
• Place form, pen and offertory donation in the receptacles provided at each exit
• Take your pew sheet home, or dispose of it outside the building.
• Conduct conversations in the churchyard at a social distance, not in the church building.
• Stay at home if you are feeling unwell, or if you or any member of your household have symptoms of coronavirus.

It is really important to maintain a 2m social distance at all possible times – be aware that other members of the congregation may have anxieties, or vulnerabilities, that are not apparent.  Please respect each other, and the efforts clergy and stewards are making for the church to be open and safe for as many people as we can manage.