Coronavirus: Chichester Cathedral suspends daily services but remains open for private prayer

However the church will remain open for private prayer, though people have been asked to observe social distancing recommendations when visiting.

The Dean of Chichester, the Very Reverend Stephen Waine, said in a statement: “Following guidance from the Church of England, as of 17th March 2020 we will no longer be holding our scheduled daily services until further notice.

“In practical terms, we are both monitoring and responding to the Government’s guidance in light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

“The doors of Chichester Cathedral remain open daily for private prayer.

“The Cathedral has been at the heart of the community for 900 years, and we will not only continue to be a centre of the Christian faith, but a place for support, peace and reflection which is open to everybody.

“We would ask everyone to observe social distancing recommendations when visiting.

“Our role to serve the community extends beyond the Cathedral itself in the practical support we will offer to our existing partners, in particular the Chichester District Food Bank which is in real need of donations for those that rely on its services – one of its donation points is located in the Cathedral.

“We are holding those who have contracted the virus, those in isolation and those who are anxious, in our prayers.”

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