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<p>The House of Bishops meets regularly to review its own guidance to clergy in light
of Government and public health advice.</p><p>On 5th May the House of Bishops issued
new guidance, which can be seen at: <a href="https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/news/house-bishops-backs-phased-approach-revising-access-church-buildings"
target="_blank">https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/news/house-bishops-backs-phased-approach-revising-access-church-buildings</a></p><p>While
church buildings remain closed for public worship in line with Government advice,
the Bishops agreed in principle to a phased approach to lifting restrictions, in time
and in parallel with the Government's approach, with three broad stages. The first,
effective immediately, allows clergy limited access to church buildings for activities
such as streaming of services or private prayer, so long as the necessary hygiene
and social distancing precautions are taken; the decision being made by individual
clergy after discussion with their diocesan bishop. The second and third will see
access for some rites and ceremonies, and for worship services with limited congregations
meeting, when Government restrictions are eased to allow it.</p><p>Senior staff of
the National Church Institutions have joined two of the Government’s ‘unlocking’ work
streams, within the Department for Culture Media and Sport and Ministry of Housing,
Communities and Local Government.</p><p> </p>
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