Mansfield's oldest parish church set to re-open amid Covid 19 rules relaxation

The 900 year-old St Peter & St Paul's Church is set to reopen as the Covid 19 restrictions are eased.

The building on Church Side, has been closed for three months since the start of lock down. Fom June 30, the historic church will open on Tuesdays, from 10am-12noon, and Fridays, 1pm-3pm.

According to Reverend Caroline Phillips, the church’s council has put in place the “necessary social distancing,” with 2m markers, and a one-way system, as well as hygiene measures.

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Rev Phillips only started her role at the church in September, 2019, with her three daughters and husband Matt.

She said: “It really was a baptism of fire to come to the church, and then find ourselves amid the Covid 19 situation.

“It is a credit to our church family that everyone has pulled together and we have done a great deal for the community, such as shopping for the elderly or helping the vulnerable or homeless during the crisis. It has been wonderful to see the response.

“It has been a very difficult time for many people, and everything was affected from how we held funerals to doing our services online. So, it is nice to be offering people the opportunity to come in to the church again, to just enjoy a quiet moment, drop in and find a some space, no matter what denomination, all are welcome.

“For those who wish to, there is an opportunity to light a candle, and friendly stewards will be on hand to pray for visitors, if required. We are hoping that our full services will be running again at some point, but as yet we don’t know when that will be.”

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Rev Phillips added: “St Peter’s has always had a long tradition of keeping its doors open, and following the challenges of the past few months, we’re looking forward once again to welcoming all who come in search of peace and hope.”

During the lockdown, the church has been holding services via YouTube at 'St Peter & St Paul's Church Mansfield.' For details: 07851 511585.

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