As a result of the First Minister’s announcement of a national lockdown on Monday 4 January 2021, St Oswald’s and all places of worship in Scotland will be closed until the end of January and possibly for longer. However, it is important to remember that, like the first lockdown, it is only the church building that is closing. The people of the church will still be praying, gathering online and are all part of a larger community.
Bishop Kevin sent out this message:
“As you will have heard, the First Minister has announced that all places of worship must be closed from Friday.“This is a painful decision, but a sensible decision. We all have our part to play in ensuring that we mix with each other physically as little as possible.“May I wish you all the joy of the Magi as they visited the Christ-child before setting off on a different route home. Our route through Epiphany-tide this year is going to be different, and we pray for each other as we listen for the promptings of the Spirit in leading our people on their journey of faith into Spring 2021.”
You can also read a statement from the Primus on behalf of the College of Bishops here.
Members of St Oswald’s will continue to meet on Zoom on Wednesday nights at 9pm for compline, a short service of night prayer. You can also join in the provincial worship on Sunday mornings which is available on the Scottish Episcopal Church Facebook page and YouTube channel. Feel free to get in touch with me if you would like some help getting involved with Zoom or accessing resources online.
Please remember to stay in touch with each other and to contact someone if you need help with anything. You can contact our priest, Jim, by emailing priest@stoswaldsmaybole.org.uk or calling 07598 8569 37.
