From The Hub Covid-19 Weekly update #8 Friday 8th May 2020
There is great restlessness amongst the press for an end to lockdown and our MP Chris Loader has led a campaign to open churches for funerals with limited attendance. He also lobbied South Somerset District Council to allow family members to be allowed to attend services at Yeovil Crematorium – which is now happening. I did reply to his emailed letter to Rural Deans sharing my concern at rushing to open churches for this reason, because I feel more hurt and upset could be caused if we have to turn people away from our churches because they were not on the ‘invite list’. I also do not think that having ‘bouncers’ at the church door would be an appealing thought. We will continue to support our funeral families with dignity and respect holding them in the love of Christ.
I overlooked telling you last week that this month’s Team News is available on the Team website with various options to choose how you view it according to what type of device you are using. Again, thanks to Harry for this innovation.
I have asked Chris Luckcraft to put together a package of prayers and a thought for the 75th anniversary of VE Day that is available to read here on our site.
As soon as I receive any updates from the National Church, I will ensure that they are passed onto you.
Keep safe and well!
– David
Thank you for all the replies from those of you who are watching our recorded worship. We are working towards adding a vocal line for the hymns as some of you have requested this. We might manage it next week. Worship for Easter 5 is available here – https://beaminsterteamchurches.org/worship-at-home-2020-05-10/
If you have young people in your family who might enjoy a Messy Church style session then let them know we are livestreaming at 4pm Saturday 9 May on https://www.facebook.com/BeaminsterTeam/. The video will be available later on the website too if you can’t watch live.
Thy Kingdom Come, the Archbishop’s call to prayer, will begin on Ascension Day and continue to Pentecost. There will be information on the website next week about how we will join in.
Finally – the Church of England has launched a phone line called Daily Hope with recorded prayers and hymns for people to listen to. The line – which is available 24 hours a day on 0800 804 8044 – has been set up particularly with those unable to join online church services during the period of restrictions in mind.
– Jo