Preparations are underway and measures are being put in place at Coventry Cathedral so it can welcome people safely for private prayer and reflection.
The Government announced late last Saturday night that all places of worship could open for supervised private prayer from June 15th in line with the latest Government and Public Health social distancing guidelines to ensure people’s safety. Although this date has subsequently been brought forward, we have decided to keep to the timetable we have been preparing for since the Government made this initial announcement about re-opening in June.
Accordingly, Coventry Cathedral expects to be able to open the Ruins for private prayer between 10 am and 1 pm from Monday June 15th. We hope to be able to re-open the New Cathedral for private payer, including the lighting of candles, from Monday June 22nd.
New measures to keep people safe will include limiting the number of people allowed in at any one time and signage to remind people of the health and safety around social distancing. Our commitment to the health and safety of our visitors and staff means that we are also asking people not to bring flowers or other tributes into the Ruins.
The toilets will not be open at this time and will be part of a later phase.
The Sub-Dean, Canon David Stone, said that preparations are taking place to allow the Cathedral to open its doors once more – but that we will not do so until it is safe to do so.
“We very much welcome the announcement that places of worship can open from Monday 15th June. Here at Coventry Cathedral we have been working towards a phased reopening and our primary concern is the safety of everyone – the public, our worshippers, our visitors, staff and volunteers.
“There is much to be done, and while we long to open our doors again, and welcome back those who wish to light a candle, say a prayer or reflect on these unprecedented times, we must ensure the safety and well-being of all."
Coventry Cathedral closed its doors on March 23rd. Since that time it has responded to the crisis in creative and innovative ways offering a wide range of support – both practical and spiritual to the community – online and off - and has seen a growing number of people seeking prayer and worship in these uncertain times.
It will continue to offer digital services and these can be found at www.coventrycathedral.org.uk