KELLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH,

21 Church Road, Kells, BT42 3JU, 02825891215, brian.boyd21@btinternet.com

3rd July 2020

Dear Friends,

You will be aware that the Northern Ireland Executive recently gave permission for places of worship to begin the process of reopening from 29th June.  As part of this process the combined Kirk Sessions of Kells and Eskylane met on Thursday 2nd July and decided that we would aim to begin services of worship on Sunday 23rd August.  In taking this decision Session were acutely aware of the fact that we have a responsibility before the Lord to do all that we can to make our buildings and our services as safe as possible for all our people.  We were also mindful of the advice from both Assembly Buildings and the Chief Medical Officer not to be rushed in the reopening process but to be cautious and careful.  Some congregations have felt ready to reopen at an earlier date but a considerable number in Ballymena Presbytery are aiming at a date in late August or early September.  These include Connor and ourselves.

We are conscious that some of you long to meet together for worship once again. Others are wary and apprehensive about doing so.  The important thing is that we recognize that different people have different feelings, and all have been hurt by the ongoing pandemic.  We need to hold each other up in prayer.  The Session and Committee will be working hard to make our buildings ready for restart and we are hopeful that circumstances will permit us to be together again on 23 August.  Nearer the time I will write again with details on what services will look like in our “new normal”. Until then may I assure you and your family circles of my ongoing prayers at a trying time.

Yours in Christ,

Brian Boyd