All Activity Suspended – Statement on Coronavirus (COVID-19) – 17/3/20

Dear all,

It is with a heavy heart that the Chapel Committee has taken the decision to close Cross Street Chapel for all activities until further notice. This is in line with the most recent government advice to limit social gatherings in order to delay the spread of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) infection. We recognise the importance of Cross Street as a place to worship, meet and enjoy fellowship and until now we have endeavoured to stay open for as long as possible to facilitate this, however we no longer feel it is possible to do so.

For lessees, Chapel staff will be present on site to inform visitors to the Chapel about the decision and will ensure that any group members who haven’t received the message about the cancellations are directed to return home.  Cross Street Chapel will refund any cancelled reservations where payment has been made in advance.

For worshippers, Cross Street Chapel will seek to continue to provide a vibrant and varied ministry to the congregation. Reverend Cody Coyne will create a digital service that can be accessed online, which may be in audio or video format, depending on the needs of the congregation. Virtual candles of joy and concern will can also be emailed to Cody for inclusion in the services. Groups such as Faith In Life will be facilitated via the Zoom app. If you need any support with using IT, do call and we will seek to ensure that easy to follow instructions are given so that you can access these resources. Cody will also continue to provide pastoral support via telephone, social media or home visit for those who need further spiritual guidance, or just a friendly voice if self-isolating.

We are very proud of the beloved community which we have built at Cross Street Chapel and as a committee and staff team we will do all we can to sustain this community through difficult times.  We look forward to the time when we can reopen the Chapel for normal activity and welcome you back, until then we hope and pray that all of you stay safe and well during the Coronavirus outbreak, and continue to recommend following Public Health England’s guidelines about hygiene and infection control.

Yours sincerely,

Your Chapel committee and staff team.