Please note that all those attending services (unless otherwise exempted) are required to wear face coverings. Those who may be doing readings or otherwise from the pulpit are not required to wear face coverings whilst in the pulpit, but upon returning to their seat will be required to wear a face covering again.

Thank you for your patience with these protocols/procedures - please remember these are all being done in an attempt to ensure that the transmission of the coronavirus is reduced to a minimum, thereby protecting more people - especially those who may be vulnerable.

Re-opening of Carrickfergus Methodist Church (4th April 2021)

We are pleased to have safely reopened our church on Sunday morning 4th April (and hope to continue with Sunday morning services). At present, there will be a contemporary service in the minor hall at 10:00 am followed by our Traditional Service at 11:00 am. Please be aware of the following requirements that need to be adhered to in order that we not only comply with the requirements of the NI Executive and the Methodist Church in Ireland, but that we ensure that we keep each other safe and healthy:

• Please do not attend church if you are unwell (e.g. exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms)
• Please use the hand sanitiser provided on entry to the building.
• Please maintain 2m social distancing at all times.
• We will be taking a video of the service as per normal so we should know who is in attendance but if you are a visitor please ensure that you provide your name and contact information to the Stewards to enable Track and Trace procedures to be followed should that be necessary. Anyone unwilling to do so will not be permitted to enter. This information will only be used for this purpose, will be stored securely and disposed of after 4 weeks. (Please note also that we are required to restrict capacity, so there is a very small chance, if too many people turn up, that we might have to turn some away.)
• Please wait to be seated in the sanctuary by a Steward. Unfortunately it will not be possible for you to choose where to sit. We hope to fill the church from the front as people arrive, and empty the church from the back when the service is over.
• All young children and young adults under 16 must remain with their parents throughout the service.
• Toilets are available, but are restricted to a maximum occupancy of 2 people at any one time. If there are already 2 people inside, then please wait outside until a place becomes available.
• Offering may be placed in the receptacles at the entrance to the Sanctuary.
• There will be no singing, handshakes or hugs!
• There will be no crèche, G-force (Sunday School), or Prayer Ministry
• Please leave the church promptly at the end of the service when directed to do so by the Stewards.
• Please maintain social distancing in the car park and as you make your way into and out of church – ensure that there is no build up of people, thus causing others to be unable to move. Also bear in mind that the weather could be poor, and there may be delays on entry, so consider bringing a coat and/or umbrella