National lockdown 3 and the closure of Great Budworth Church (and Arley Chapel)

Unlike the first and second national lockdowns, during which churches and other places of

worship had to close for public worship, this third lockdown has allowed choice, with an

exemption for communal worship, funerals and weddings (the last under exceptional

circumstances only).

After consultation however with all members of the Ministry Team and the Standing

Committee of the PCC, and following the Plough Service on Sunday 10 th , which was attended

by only a very few parishioners (and a couple of local visitors) we have decided to close the

church for public worship for the time being, in line with many other churches locally and

nationally. In making this very difficult decision, we have been very conscious of the anxiety

and concern of many regular parishioners, and the worsening situation in the North West

with regard to Covid-19 infections. We know this will be a disappointment to some but we

are very conscious of our responsibilities in terms of public health and adherence to the

government’s guidelines and advice. Please however be assured that online services will

continue, on a weekly basis from now on, as will the distribution electronically of the

Sunday Sheet. And we will of course be reviewing this situation after the next government

announcements in mid-February. The church will however remain open for private prayer

on Sundays only, from 11am to 4pm, for local visitors.

We have also made the decision to suspend communal worship at St Mary’s Chapel, Arley

Hall for the time being. This will also be reviewed in February.

Please be assured of our continuing thoughts and prayers for you all at this very worrying

and stressful time. If you’d like to speak to any of us please do not hesitate to contact us.

The Revd Alec Brown and the Ministry Team.

12 th January, 2021.