| From Sunday 12th December face coverings in all churches in England is mandatory. As interim Pastor I would highlight and encourage the following: |
- At Woodside we’re committed to worship both on site and online but also to keeping each other safe.
- On site we will continue to serve tea, coffee, and refreshments, while fully understanding not all may wish to stay.
- When enjoying refreshments and sharing friendship, make use of all the space available being considerate of the more vulnerable.
- Consider wrapping up a little more warmly as there might be more of an air draft due to ventilation.
- Do bring your own face covering, however we will make some available in case you forget.
- Respect and care for one another understanding this is difficult for everyone.
- Support our Church stewards as they serve us Sunday by Sunday in following Public Health guidelines.
- Pray for the Local Church Leadership Team (Church Board) as they help us navigate covid regulations and guidelines.
For Information – Who is exempt from wearing a face covering?
There is a list of exemptions below.
You do not need to wear a face covering if you have a legitimate reason not to.
In the setting of worship this includes:
• There are exemptions on wearing face coverings for those leading a service or giving a reading.
• There is a reasonable excuse exemption which allows people to remove a face covering whilst singing.
• These exemptions will also cover the bride and groom at a wedding and those officiating at the wedding.
• These exemptions are made to enable communication, particularly with those who rely on lip-reading, facial expressions, or clear sound; they do not exempt clergy and other leaders from wearing face coverings in other situations or during other activities.
There are a range of other reasons for not wearing a face covering, including:
• young children under the age of 11
• not being able to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability
• if putting on, wearing, or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress
• if you are travelling with or aiding someone who relies on lip reading to communicate
• to avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others
• to avoid injury, or to escape a risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you
• to eat or drink,
• to take medication
• if a police officer or other official requests you remove your face covering.