Coronavirus: Chichester cathedral closes

Following an announcement last night (Monday, March 23) by prime minister Boris Johnson, the cathedral has closed until further notice.

In response to the government’s instructions all Church of England churches have closed in order to support the effort to limit the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Dean of Chichester, the very Reverend Stephen Waine has issued the following statement: “The cathedral’s witness to the love of God for his people has endured for 900 years, and today, despite being closed, Chichester cathedral remains a strong symbol of God’s presence alongside us.

"In these unprecedented times, we will continue to offer prayer individually away from the cathedral. Reiterating the message released by Archbishops and Bishops on Monday, all churches, including Chichester cathedral, will ‘continue to pray, to love, to care for the vulnerable’.

"We are already developing new ways to continue in our duty. We encourage you to visit our website www.chichestercathedral.org.uk to see the many resources we are developing for worship, and soon for learning and pilgrimage.

"We urge you to stay at home, and know that God is with you there.”

For more information please visit www.chichestercathedral.org.uk