Physical services, including funerals, have been stopped by the main denominations in line with government advice
that large-scale gatherings should be avoided.
Some places of worship will broadcast services via Facebook Live or other streaming platforms. Many churches will remain open for individuals to pray privately, but funerals will take place at the graveside or Crematorium.
The Dean of Jersey, the Very Rev Mike Keirle, confirmed that Anglican churches had suspended all public acts of worship, and other meetings and gatherings, for the foreseeable future.
The Dean said: ‘This has been a difficult decision, but it is critical that we do everything we can to protect the most vulnerable in our faith communities and prevent the spread of coronavirus.
‘This gives us a real opportunity to worship in a different way and I have encouraged all clergy to be creative in using outdoor space and technology for worship, to stream or record services so that they are available online and to work in partnership with other community groups and within their own parishes, to ensure pastoral care for those who are most vulnerable or who may be self-isolating or socially distancing themselves.’
The Dean said he was producing three services of ‘Night Prayer’ weekly, which would be posted on the Deanery website for people to download and use each evening. Many parishes were likely to be introducing some form of online service, he said.
Sunday services will be streamed live tomorrow by three Anglican churches via their websites: St Mark’s and St Paul’s (both 10.30am) and St Luke’s (10am). A recorded service from St Saviour’s will be uploaded to the parish website later on Sunday.
The Jersey Methodist Circuit, which has suspended services immediately until further notice, hopes to start live-streaming Sunday services from the St Helier Methodist Centre with effect from Sunday 29 March.
A spokesman for the Catholic Church in Jersey said that all masses and activities would be cancelled, with certain churches remaining open for personal prayer and reflection. Urgent enquiries can be made to St Thomas Parish Office on 720235.
Stephen Regal, president of the Jersey Jewish Congregation, said that formal worship was suspended in line with guidance issued by the Chief Rabbi of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.
‘We’re sad to be making this decision, but it is one that we believe is necessary,’ he said.
All funerals will now take place at the Crematorium or at the graveside and not in churches.
Paul Battrick, managing director of Pitcher & Le Quesne funeral directors, said: ‘As no public gathering can take place, having smaller funerals is the safer option during these difficult and emotional times.
‘We are speaking with our clients about their options and the importance of social distancing and the need to avoid handshakes and hugging. Touching and embracing is the most natural thing to do, but health precautions and safety is key and now we all must think about how we act.’
