As you may have heard all public worship in the Church of England has been suspended with immediate effect.  However, our role as a people of prayer is as important as ever and clergy and ministers will be maintaining the regular prayer of the Church so far as possible.

Firstly, so far as is possible our churches remain open as places of reflection and prayer.  In Louth, the Parish Church of St James will be open for people to use for private prayer between 8 30am and 12noon every day.

Secondly, the pattern of prayer that sustains the Church will be maintained .so far as is possible.  In the deanery of Louthesk this will centre on the daily office being said as follows:

Resources will be produced as soon as possible so that people can join in these times of prayer – for and on behalf of the community – wherever they may be; joined in prayer, if not presence.

In addition, clergy and ministers will offer worship on behalf of the wider community in the form of the Eucharist at 10am on Sunday mornings, 11am on Tuesdays and as decided for other special days and commemorations.  Again, we hope that people will be able to join in this offering of worship wherever they may be – though it is important to highlight that these are not public acts of worship.

I encourage you to join in the prayer of the Church as you are able to in your own situation and, at this strange time, to remain confident in a faith that brings hope.

Attached to this e-mail is further information that may be of use as we respond to an unfamiliar situation, including information about pastoral care and the service we might offer to others.

Information about baptisms, weddings and funerals will be made known as soon as it is clear what the situation is regarding these pastoral offices.

With my thoughts and prayers,

Nick

Nick Brown, Rector of Louth and Rural Dean of Louthesk

The Rectory

Westgate

Louth