In the light of the developing Coronavirus situation there
will no longer be congregational use of the chalice in Church of England
communion services at St Wilfrid’s and St Francis on Sundays and mid-week. This
will take place with immediate effect. Communion will be “in one kind” i.e.
wafer only. Priests will consecrate a small amount of wine which they alone
will consume. The use of the chalice (the Common Cup) in this way as part of
the Communion service means it will retain its important role as a symbol of
unity.
During Methodist services a similar sign of unity is found
in the whole loaf which is broken and shared. As the wine is served in
individual glasses this practise will continue as usual.
We would also ask worshippers to refrain from handshaking,
hugging and kissing during the sharing of the Peace. By all means move around
the church if you would like to, but please use non-contact gestures such as
hands together in a prayerful posture or a simple open hands gesture instead. This
will continue to make sharing of the Peace a meaningful part of the service.
Thank you
Pete Watson and Christine Gillespie
