This page was last updated on the 17 March 2020.
A statement from Dean Roger
“The coronavirus pandemic has already had a profound impact on our life as a society. We have seen how this has affected other European countries. Now the harsh reality of the pandemic is affecting the UK, and this has implications for the churches as well. The archbishops of Canterbury and York have written to all clergy this afternoon saying that, in the light of the measures being taken by the government to curb the spread of the virus, all public worship in our cathedrals and churches will cease for the foreseeable future.
Although this means that usual Sunday and mid-week services must be put on hold, it does not mean that the Church of England puts up the ‘Closed for Business’ sign. We are being asked to re-dedicate ourselves to the task of being the Church for the whole nation in the wake of the greatest peace time crisis this country has faced for hundreds of years.
So, Truro Cathedral’s doors will remain open for people to come in to be still, say prayers and perhaps light a candle. Extra precautions are being taken and hygiene protocols must be followed at all times to ensure the wellbeing of visitors and staff, however it is vital at this time for the public to feel that they have somewhere to go.
We also recognise that enforced quarantining for some of the most vulnerable members of our community can increase feelings of isolation, so please be assured that the cathedral will daily pray for all of you at this difficult time. We have added specific prayers regarding Coronavirus to our website that you may like to use, and please remember that you are welcome to use our online prayer request form too.
Ironically, at difficult times like this, people can come together to support each other in all sorts of ways. And the power of prayer reminds us that, no matter what circumstances we face, God is always present for us. Do pray for each other, as we will continually pray for you.”
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy
in this time of uncertainty and distress.
Sustain and support the anxious and fearful,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may rejoice in your comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.
