By Lisa Zengarini
The decision by the British Government not to close places of worship during the new National Lockdown is based on the recognition that churches in the Country are safe and that the service they offer is essential, a British Church official has explained.
Britain entered its third National Lockdown on January 5. However, this time, churches in England and Wales have been allowed to stay open for prayer and communal worship, in spite of pressures from many local authorities to close them and the Scottish Prime Minister's decision to do so. Following questions from many people about the reasons for keeping churches open, Auxiliary Bishop of Westminster John Sherrington, issued a letter on January 8 explaining the position and role of churches during the on-going crisis.