The Government will lift legal restrictions on communal worship in England from Monday 19 July, Boris Johnson has confirmed.
Earlier this month, Health Secretary Sajid Javid announced there would be “no restrictions on communal worship or singing”.
Restrictions on communal worship in England have been in place since the beginning of the pandemic fifteen months ago. When churches have been allowed to open there has been a legal requirement to wear face coverings and advice not to sing.
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Official guidance has not been published but while social distancing restrictions will be dropped, Mr Johnson stressed that mask wearing would be expected in “enclosed spaces”.
The Prime Minister said “We will stick to our plan to lift legal restrictions and to lift social distancing.
“But we expect and recommend that people wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you come into contact with those you don’t normally meet, such as on public transport”.
‘Welcome move’
The Christian Institute’s Deputy Director for Communications, Ciarán Kelly, said: “Throughout the Covid outbreak, the Institute has consistently reminded the Government that it must not ignore the spiritual needs of the country.
“Christians across the country will welcome this big step towards the gathered worship they remember from pre-Covid times.”
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