Covid Guidelines - January 2022
Attending Worship at Acomb Baptist Church
Background
The ABC congregation was invited back to the church building in July 2021, after the easing of Government restrictions on social contact which had been introduced to control the spread of Covid-19.
Out
of care for one another and in accordance with the latest official and Baptist
Union guidance, we have continued our commitment to provide the safest possible
environment in which to welcome people back to church in person.
This
has made it possible, alongside steady church attendance, to reintroduce
in-person children’s and youth work, ABC Club has resumed and two community
choirs are making regular use of the building during the week.
In
order to protect the health and well-being of all connected with our church, we
have conducted a risk assessment for every activity and put the following in
place for those using the building:
· Hand Sanitiser on the door
· Signage promoting face coverings, hand-washing and distancing
· Antibacterial wipes in toilet facilities
· Enhanced cleaning regime
· Improved ventilation
· Distancing measures for those engaged in platform ministry and screens separating worship team members
· Hygienically sealed elements for Communion
· Creche available to one family at a time, by prior arrangement with Carolyn or Kirsty.
· Provision of an offertory box in the foyer rather than passing bags along the rows. Use of bank transfer is encouraged.
Note: We are no longer required to keep formal records of who attends.
Thank you for doing your part to keep us all safe. This means, please:
ü stay away if you feel unwell and observe Government advice on self-isolation following a positive test. (Do let us know if you are unwell so we can pray and offer any practical support.)
ü if at all possible take up your Covid and flu vaccinations.
ü take a lateral flow test prior to attending worship. This is in accordance with Government advice to do a test before attending crowded venues, or spending time with anyone who is clinically vulnerable.
ü wear a face covering on arrival at church and throughout the service. Exceptions are those who are medically exempt, or ministering from the platform or in the worship team.
ü continue to exercise caution over physical contact. Only hug, kiss or shake hands with someone from outside your own household group, if they have asked or expressly agreed to it.
ü bring your Bible, and your own drink or any other refreshments as for the time being they are not normally available at church. You should take any rubbish home with you.
All of the above are subject to review if Government or Baptist Union advice changes.
It is cause for rejoicing that we are able to meet again in person, albeit with restrictions in place. At the same time we are mindful of those of our brothers and sisters who, for reasons of their own health or commitment to protecting others, are for now unable to join us for physical worship and so access the service over Zoom. We remain one family in Jesus and meet always with you in our hearts and minds.
Susan Hall, Acting Administrator on behalf of CLT
15 January 2022
Removed from the Activities Page 22/03/2024
History of Corona-virus restrictions
ABC's activities operate within the guidelines laid down by the Government and advice provided by the Baptist Union of Great Britain. Please see our latest guidelines.
Corona-virus Updates-
Thursday 13 May 2021
At today's church meeting it was agreed that we will work towards opening up the church building from Sunday 30 May 2021. 'Hybrid' Zoom services will commence from that date. Other church activities will open up after appropriate risk assessments have been completed and as corona-virus guidelines allow.
Saturday 9 January 2021
The second lock-down thwarted our plans to re-open. Although the current rules do permit gathering in church, the CLT have decide not to press ahead with plans to re-open for the time being.
Friday 18 September 2020
The CLT intends to gradually open up the church for Sunday morning services. Initially, a small Worship Team and technical staff will join the preacher so that sung worship will sound better for those joining via Zoom in their homes. (Singing is not permitted by the congregation.) Over time, additional worshippers will be invited to join the congregation.
Wednesday 24 June 2020
From 4 July the 2m distancing guidance will change in England.
Yesterday, the Prime Minister announced: "...I am delighted that places of worship will be able to reopen for prayer and services – including weddings with a maximum of 30 people, all subject to social distancing."
The CLT will discuss at their next meeting on Tuesday 7 July what the implications and opportunities are for Acomb Baptist Church as a result of this announcement and any guidance published as a consequence.
Wednesday 18 March 2020
Following advice from the UK Government and the Baptist Denomination, Acomb Baptist Church has made the sad decision to suspend all gatherings until further notice.
Last updated 30 July 2022 (BAF).
Page created Tuesday 25 May 2021.