The United Benefice of Saint Faith, Great Crosby

and Saint Mary the Virgin, Waterloo Park

SWINE FLU PANDEMIC PRECAUTIONS

Based on guidelines issued by the Diocese (and following practice in other parts of the Church of England) the following applies to the liturgy in both churches (Sundays and weekdays) until further notice:

•   If you are unwell it is best to stay at home.

•    Members of the Welcome team will use a hand-rub frequently while welcoming those attending the services.

• The exchange of the peace will be without handshakes or other close contact. The celebrant will not touch people’s heads when giving blessings.

•   Holy Communion will be administered under one kind only – only the celebrant will receive the chalice.  Please note that if you receive the host only, you receive “the whole sacrament”

• The use of intinction – dipping the consecrated host in the chalice – is not allowed, as it is higher risk than the normal use of a common cup, because of inadvertent finger dipping.

•    Holy water stoups (in S. Faith’s) will be emptied and thoroughly cleaned and not used until the pandemic alert is over. 

As the Churchwardens have received a number of queries from people who are genuinely anxious about this I have consulted the Ministry Team, and this is the course of action we will be taking.

Fr Neil Kelley

July 22nd, 2009