Statement from the Presbyterian Church in Ireland in relation to the Northern Ireland Executive’s announcement yesterday afternoon (18 June) that churches can resume services in July –
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland has welcomed this afternoon’s indicative announcement by the First Minister and deputy First Minister that churches in Northern Ireland can hopefully resume worship services from week commencing 29 June, but has stressed that this should be undertaken safely.
Responding to the announcement, Rev Trevor Gribben, Clerk of the General Assembly and General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland said, “Following a meeting with Arlene Foster and Michelle O’Neill earlier this week, along with senior representatives from others churches and faith communities, we are delighted to have reached this point and welcome today’s indicative announcement that gathering for church services can now resume, albeit with certain restrictions in place.
“Back in March it was with genuine sadness that we had to close our churches, one of the many unprecedented national restrictions put in place to keep us all safe. Nearly 100 days have passed since our congregations were last able to gather together for Sunday worship and other activities, and as we see more areas of community life gradually emerging from the worst impacts of Covid-19, this announcement will be appreciated across the denomination, and we give thanks for it.
“Lockdown has placed significant pressure on all of us and while it is encouraging to see our towns and cities opening up again, along with spaces to enjoy outdoor exercise in order to help meet our practical needs, we all have spiritual and pastoral needs, which must also be met. I would, therefore, like to pay tribute to our ministers and members who have found – and learnt – different and creative ways to engage with their church family over this time. These innovations will still be needed as we slowly and safely move towards the point of meeting together.
“I would also want to acknowledge the leadership given by the First Minister and deputy First Minister, and their Executive colleagues, throughout this period, and the many positive meetings we have had with other churches on this and other matters.”
Mr Gribben continued, “Meeting together with our brothers and sisters in Christ is central to Christian life and a primary expression of church as the family of God. While there has now been an announcement that church services can resume from 29 June, to be confirmed next Thursday, each of our congregations must think carefully and responsibly about the practical preparations necessary to facilitate this long awaited, and prayed for return. Those decisions will be taken by the local Minister and elders, dependant on local factors.
“The circumstances of each local church will be different and we are supporting our congregations to make the necessary decisions to enable gatherings to take place safely, by providing detailed guidance in preparation for re-opening.”
Mr Gribben concluded by saying, “We look forward to having the opportunity to gather again to worship the risen Lord Jesus, continuing as always, to put our trust in God who can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine.”