“We intend to continue with all our planned carol services as we have had no advice to the contrary. However, we also want to assure all of you that we entirely understand if you do not feel confident to attend a face to face event, either because of your own vulnerability or because of your wish to prioritize meetings with family at this time.”

Should you attend one of our Christmas services, please note we will be adhering to the following guidelines:

• Use of hand sanitiser on entry.
• Face masks mandatory except for those people with exemptions.
• Face masks to be worn when singing.
• Covid ‘passports’ not required.
• Lateral flow tests encouraged before attending.
• Refreshments will NOT be served after the services.
• Doors and windows will be left open to improve ventilation

Dear Friends,.

We are all saddened and concerned following the news of rising cases and potential impact of the new Covid variant, Omicron. This version of the virus is highly transmissible and although vaccination seems to offer a good level of protection against serious disease it is expected that the substantial number of likely infection may pose a threat to the NHS and care services. Quite understandably, many of you may well be feeling anxious or cautious so I wanted to update you regarding the situation in Church and in particular, forthcoming services and events.

We intend to continue with all our planned carol services as we have had no advice to the contrary. However, we also want to assure all of you that we entirely understand if you do not feel confident to attend a face to face event, either because of your own vulnerability or because of your wish to prioritize meetings with family at this time.

If you do intend coming to a carol service tomorrow or a service on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, please can we invite you to wear a mask throughout. Sadly this does include singing carols and we also recommend that you take a lateral flow before attending. This is in line with the Bishop’s guidance for the Diocese of Norwich.

We have also taken the decision not to offer refreshments following carol services as this would involve the removal of masks and therefore increase the risk of infection.

If you choose not to attend a service, please be aware that a Rockland Benefice Carol Service will be available on You Tube by the end of Monday and also that a Midnight Communion Service video will be published by midnight on Christmas Eve.

This is very disappointing and I am sure we have all really hoped that we would not be subject to these restrictions and considerations once again. It is a difficult time. We acknowledge that and wish to offer our prayers, concern and practical help to all who may find themselves alone or isolating at this time.

If you need anything or would value company or a phone conversation, please let us know. Together, as a community, we will ensure that a message of peace, hope and love is made known in our midst.

With my very best wishes to you,
Helen