COVID-19 Guidance

Following Government guidance, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York have advised that public worship must be put on hold in light of the Coronavirus and they encourage us all to engage in active prayer and support for those affected by this situation. In the Dioceses of London, Chelmsford, Southwark and Rochester, recognising that the situation with COVID-19 is further advanced than in the rest of the country, the decision has been taken that all church buildings must close.

The life of faith and the work of the church goes on, but for now it must be conducted in our homes, and across digital and virtual means.

Here at St Luke’s this guidance will have the following impact on our parish life :

• prayer in church will continue to be offered by the clergy but the building will not be open to the public;
• prayer resources and other literature will be distributed via an email list so that people can pray where they are without coming to church (sign up here);
• we will explore making further resources available online;
• all non-liturgical events in church are cancelled until further notice (tea/coffee after services, CRAFTernoon TEA, Friday soup lunch, concerts, etc);
• a Pastoral Network has been established so that members can keep in touch and check up with each other (please get in touch here if this applies to you);
• via the Pastoral Network, we will try to provide and coordinate support for those who may need it — especially the elderly, the vulnerable and those self-isolating;
• we will continue to support the foodbank as demand increases — if you aren’t able to deliver items directly to the foodbank, then you can donate here (you choose a bundle of food for a set cost which is delivered directly to the foodbank warehouse — please ensure to donate to Hammersmith & Fulham foodbank).

Please be aware of and be in touch with anyone who could be anxious, lonely or vulnerable in the current circumstances. Please, of course, continue to pray for all those in any way affected by this fast-developing situation.