The Diocese of Northampton has produced new Covid-19 guidance based on the guidance from the government and the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales.
The risk based approach aims to both ensure public safety and build confidence in local situations.
Some practices remain in place such as routine cleaning, hand sanitisation, wearing of face coverings, good ventilation, stewarding, track and trace, social distancing and one way systems where possible.
Congregational singing remains prohibited. A spokesperson for the diocese said
“We receive a great number of queries regarding a return of congregational singing as part of the liturgy and we recognise the frustration of many people at the absence of this. Our priority remains, as it has always been to keep all those worshiping in our churches safe”.
The numbers of people attending holy Mass will continue to be based on the capacity of each church and church goers are encouraged this with their local parish. For baptisms and weddings 30 people will be able to celebrate with the family, however funerals will be able to be attended by the maximum covid secure capacity for the individual church.
For a full list of the latest guidelines see here.