Churchgoers will not be required to wear masks while singing in churches in England, new Government guidance has confirmed.
While congregational singing was never explicitly prohibited under previous Covid regulations, the latest rules confirm that while mask wearing will be mandatory in churches, they may be removed for congregational singing.
The guidance states it is reasonably necessary to remove a face covering to sing “for example, if they are singing as part of a choir, or during a service, rehearsal or for a performance”.
NHS Covid Passes
The Government Equalities Office has confirmed that face coverings will not be required “for those leading a service or giving a reading” in a place of worship.
It also states that while NHS Covid Passes will be required in some settings with large crowds, “this requirement will not apply to our places of worship”, and that “Communal Worship, Weddings, Funerals and other ceremonies to mark key life events will all be exempt”.
Guests at wedding receptions, however, could be required to prove they are fully vaccinated if over 18, but this will only apply at receptions of over 500 guests.
During receptions however, regardless of size, guests will not be required to wear face coverings where the main activity involves eating and drinking or dancing, though venues may ask guests to wear masks in areas of the venue where the main activity is not taking place.