No singing or prayer books – these are the new rules in place as Chichester Cathedral resumes services

Services will recommence on Sunday, July 5, at 8am with a Book of Common Prayer service; the Eucharist at 9.30am and 11.00am and Said Evening Prayer at 3.30pm.

In line with Government and Church of England guidelines, the Cathedral has introduced additional measures to ensure that worshippers, as well as those continuing to visit for prayer and reflection, can do so safely.

Worshippers attending services will be encouraged to reserve their space in advance via an online booking system which is available via the website.

However, places have been allocated for those arriving without advance reservation.

These people will be asked for their name and phone number on arrival for recording purposes to help with track and trace.

During the service, communion will be brought to worshippers by the presiding clergy.

Prayer books will not be provided and singing is not permitted.

Instead, the organ will be played at relevant services.

People are being encouraged to wear face coverings, and some will be made available to anyone who may have forgotten.

Upon arrival, worshippers will be asked to queue at the Cathedral’s West Door, using the floor stickers to adhere to social distance recommendations.

Routing into the Cathedral for Worship will follow the existing system; entrance via West door and South aisle, exit via North aisle and out West door.

All other entrances and exits to the building will remain closed.

This route will be continually monitored to ensure everyone’s safety.

People are reminded that the Café, Shop and on-site toilets are now closed.

The Dean of Chichester, The Very Reverend Stephen Waine, said: “It is with great pleasure that we can announce the resumption of public services.

“We look forward to welcoming worshippers and in this way continuing the Cathedral’s witness to the love of God for his people which has endured in this city for 900 years.”

A schedule of future services is now available on the Cathedral website here.

The Cathedral also recognises that many people will be unable to visit for a number of reasons and would like to reassure everyone that digital resources including Online Services, will continue to be available to access at home.

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