Individual Private Prayer

St Michael’s Opening for Individual Private Prayer

We are pleased to announce that, from 5th July 2020, the Lady Chapel will be open for individual prayer during the following times:

  • Wednesday 10am - 12 noon

Note that the Private Prayer session on Wednesday 30 June 2021 will be the last one, as the 10:00am Eucharist Service will resume from Wednesday 7 July 2021.

Because of the continuing risk of COVID-19, we hope that you will understand that there need to be strict rules around this to keep everyone safe.  Here is what you need to know before you come, and what to expect while you are with us:

  • Please only visit if you and those you live with are well.  If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, however minor, or if you are self-isolating because a member of your household has shown symptoms, PLEASE STAY AWAY.
  • Please bring a face covering (a scarf or similar will be fine if you do not have a mask) and wear it during your visit (our volunteers will be doing the same).
  • Please be aware that numbers in the church will be strictly limited.  We can accommodate up to 5 individuals (or couples if they are from the same household) at any one time.  If we are “full”, you will be asked to wait outside or return later – please don’t take offence.
  • Access will be to the Lady Chapel only.  Please do not cross barriers to enter other areas.
  • Please sanitise your hands on arrival and when you leave, and try to limit what you touch while you are in the church.
  • Please follow the government’s guidance on respiratory hygiene (see posters) and dispose of any tissues you use in the bins provided.
  • Please maintain a social distance of at least 2m from others at all times.
  • When you arrive, you will be directed to a seat by our volunteer marshals.  Please do not sit anywhere else, or move around the building, other than to light a candle if you wish.
  • Check that the aisle is clear when entering, leaving or moving to light candles to avoid passing others.
  • Single-use prayer sheets will be available – please take them with you when you leave, or dispose of them in the bin provided.
  • Prayer request forms will be available, but please bring your own pen.
  • The marshals are there to help you.  Please ask them if anything is unclear, and follow their directions at all times.

We know that none of this is 'normal', but it is necessary, and we thank you for bearing with us in these extraordinary times.  We will be delighted to welcome you despite all the restrictions, and hope that you will enjoy the opportunity to sit quietly in God’s presence once again in this beautiful, sacred space.

Liz Ratcliffe and the St Michael’s Team.
3rd July 2020