Following the UK Government’s announcement that English churches can reopen for private worship, St Peter’s Church in Ruddington has confirmed it is welcoming visitors again two days a week.
With COVID-19 Coronavirus now much less prevalent among the general population, it’s considered safe to allow people in, so long as guidance around ‘social distancing’ and frequent hand washing is observed.
Vicar of Ruddington, Andrew Buchanan says: “It’s wonderful news that we’ve been given permission to open our church building for private prayer and quiet reflection. So, on Sundays 10am to 12noon and Wednesdays 2pm to 4pm, St Peter’s will be open and all are welcome. Please be assured that there will be enough hand sanitizer for all – and we’ve made arrangements so that all can sit suitably socially distanced.”
For those who can’t make it to the building, or prefer to join in with more ‘formal’ services, St Peter’s Church continues to run Facebook “Live” online Morning Prayer at 9am on Mondays and Fridays and 8pm Evening Prayer every Wednesday. There’s also a weekly Sunday Sermon you can watch on St Peter’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.
However, the lifting of restrictions on entering the building coincides with new restrictions on entering the grounds at night, following mindless damage to the historic premises:
“Sadly, due to persistent vandalism to our precious church windows, we’re going to have to temporarily close the churchyard between 7pm and 8.30am each evening” explains Reverend Buchanan. “We are really sorry for any inconvenience that this may cause.” Indeed many villagers use the pathways around the church as a pleasant thoroughfare between Church Street and Dutton’s Hill.
He adds: “We’re still waiting for an estimate of repair costs, but it will be thousands of pounds. So, if anyone has any information as to who might be smashing our stained-glass windows, I would be glad to hear from you.”
You can also call Nottinghamshire Police on 101 with any information – or ‘phone 999 if you see a crime in progress. Alternatively report it online >>HERE<< or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
