In line with the latest guidance on limiting the spread of the Coronavirus COVID-19 all church gatherings and events are suspended until further notice. This includes Sunday Services our Toddler Group and Home Groups. Messy Church on 21st March is also being postponed. We are actively exploring ways of being church together online, more details here and on our Facebook page when we have them.

The guidelines mean that we are unable to visit anyone who is self-isolating until their isolation ends so instead we are offering support by telephone and will do what we can to arrange for practical assistance. 

While many of us are part of groups who care well for each other already, we would urge you to look out for neighbours and friends at this time, and particularly those who are more frail or isolated. As Bishop Olivia writes “Phone calls, messages, letters, cards or food left on the doorstep are all signs that we care.” 

If you are isolated and need help in the area please phone 01865 861541 or email office@cumnor.org

We are here to help and pray. May God be with us all during this difficult time.

A word from Bishop Colin about COVID-19

Bishop Colin has written to all clergy, LLMs and church wardens this week:

“Each day, global concern about the COVID-19 virus increases – for good reason. We know that it is very contagious, that it is a new virus which we don’t have inbuilt immunity to, and that it can have very serious consequences for those who are elderly or physically vulnerable. We are sensibly planning for the worst while working for the best.

“While thinking about what we should do (or not do), here are some thoughts from +Olivia about how we should be:

Calm: the opposite will lead us to do things which might impact seriously on others – like panic buying.

Caring: those who self-isolate, (those in high-risk groups, or who have been in contact with the virus) need to know that we care about them. Phone calls, messages, letters, cards, food left on the doorstep are all signs that we care.

Considerate: let’s look out for one another, and act collectively to prevent the spread. It isn’t just about me, it’s about us

And of course, Christ-like: let’s live hopefully, love generously and pray earnestly – and let’s bless each other by the way we behave.”

The Diocesan website is regularly updated with information for churches: https://www.oxford.anglican.org/coronavirus-covid-19/

Jonathan Widdess

Vicar of Cumnor
01865 863702