The change in the weather means that the Sunday service is moving indoors as of this week This is a welcome return to the church building, but there are changes, especially to how we move around the building. There are some differences from the recent outdoor services as well.

Jez's midweek video is an important introduction for how we will be using the church this autumn: https://vimeo.com/461033056

The service will be similar to those held outdoors, a short (ca. 30 mins) Service of the Word, without Communion.

Registering in advance: still required, and more important as the maximum number permitted inside the church is smaller than for outdoor services. Please use the updated form here, also linked via the button below.

Numbers: with the required 2m distancing, the church can seat 41 individuals from a maximum of 17 separate bubbles, including the Rector and his family. The 16 seating positions in the church are for 2-3 people each, but those from different bubbles have to sit in different places.

Room occupancy: BC public health also requires us to post maximum space occupancy numbers in each area to help maintain distancing - obviously, the vestry will hold fewer people safely than the nave. The limit for the narthex is 4, and 2 for the ramp/vestry area.

Direction of travel: Everyone will be entering the church via the door at the rear of the narthex (except step-free access via the fire door on the north side), and exiting via that fire door on the north side, nearest the pulpit.

  • There will be lots of signs to read!
  • Everyone will enter the church by the front door, sign in at a table in the narthex, and enter the church by the door at the rear of the narthex. Spacing for lining up will be marked out at 2 metre intervals in the narthex and the front porch – like at the supermarket.
  • Everyone will be directed to a particular seat, in order - like cinema seating.
  • The church doors will be open to improve ventilation, so dress for outdoor temperatures.
  • The pew cushions have been removed – you may bring your own and take it away with you.
  • The service will be kept to about 30 minutes, so people don’t get too cold, and to minimize need for washroom use.
  • It will be difficult to maintain distancing while going to and from the upstairs washroom during the service or otherwise moving around. We are avoiding using the downstairs washrooms as they are in regular use by the kids' groups renting the lower hall.
  • Each washroom user will need to sanitize surfaces (i.e. clean the washroom) after use. Instructions, disinfectant spray and paper towels are ready in the washroom.
  • Congregational singing is still not permitted.
  • We will not be sharing the Peace, Communion (yet), or post-service refreshments.
  • Masks/face coverings are encouraged but not required.
  • At the end of the service, Jez will direct exiting, by seating number, by the fire doors nearest the pulpit, in order to maintain distancing.

Moving around a familiar space with unfamiliar new requirements will take some practice. The main things to remember with social distancing are to take time and give space.

if you have comments, questions or concerns, please do contact Jez or Anna.