AMID the ban by the Church of England on all “mass gatherings” due to the Covid-19 epidemic, meaning no formal religious services are allowed, Weymouth churches are seeking to maintain public contact.

Revd Jo Haine, Vicar of Emmanuel and St. Mary’s, in an e-mail last week, said: “We have been advised that we can no longer meet as a gathered church.

“May this be a time where we learn to live in the sure and certain hope of our faith. Take comfort that Jesus Christ will draw close to you and give you strength and peace. Be assured of my prayers at this time.”

Each week, some churches are planning to write a “short reflection”, combining Bible readings and prayers on the current situation to be distributed by e-mail as well as mail where possible.

Congregations are also urged to keep a close eye on their neighbours to ensure no vulnerable person is without help if they choose to self-isolate. E-mail and telephone contacts are also encouraged across the wider church community

Meanwhile Community Chaplain Neil Biles plans to be available for a time on weekdays at St, Mary’s.

He said: “I will be keeping the church open in the mornings as long as I can from 10:30am to 12:30pm, Monday to Friday, so that individuals can come and pray.”

The restriction is also affecting other organisations who use church premises. For example, U3A, has had to cancel its monthly lecture meetings and also numerous group activities held in St. Aldhelm’s Church hall on Spa Road due to its closure