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March 13, 2020Coronavirus Update: The UK has moved from the Containment to Delay phase and we have updated our clergy with further instructions around containment protocols in our parishes. Our strategy is to make the safety of our people and the interests of public health paramount, to act according to advice issued by the UK and Scottish governments, and to keep updated on the best scientific advice around the safe celebration of our Masses, Services and Functions.
The bishop has dispensed from the obligation to attend Sunday Masses the elderly and those with underlying conditions. Those with symptoms consistent with having caught the virus should stay away from Church services.
Should the government act to close schools etc we will obviously, at that point, make a prudential judgement on the celebration of public Masses. In the meantime we encourage you to pray: for a minimisation in the negative effects of the virus; that those vulnerable be kept safe; that our wider society remains stable; and that a vaccine is soon found.
The coronavirus virus poses a danger particularly to vulnerable members of our community. It is spread by physical contact. We have a duty to protect each other by good general hygiene, especially washing hands frequently and thoroughly.- If we have coronavirus-or cold/ flu like symptoms we should stay away from gatherings.
- (1) Holy water fonts will be emptied;
- (2) The Sign of Peace will be suspended;
- (3) Distribution of the Precious Blood will be suspended;
- (4) Holy Communion will be distributed on the hand or tongue. If receiving on the tongue, present yourself with mouth wide open and tongue extended to minimise finger contact from the minister. If receiving by hand thoroughly wash your hands and extend them wide open for the host to be placed with minimum contact. Other guidelines are in place for parish workers and volunteers.
World Health Organization information updates here
