THE Bishop of Worcester has criticised the government's decision to ban public church services during lockdown.

Bishop John Inge said: “It’s very disappointing, that under the new restrictions, we shall be obliged to close churches again except for funerals, for broadcast worship and for individual prayer.

“Going to church isn’t just a leisure activity – for many it will have a significant impact on their mental well-being, and faith is often an important way of coping with trauma and grief. Furthermore, with the hard work of churches to ensure they are Covid-secure, there is no evidence that the virus is spreading this way.”

Bishop John, along with leaders from various faiths, have let their feelings be known to government decision-makers.

Bishop John added: “The Church of England, along with other denominations and faiths, is making representations to the Government about the banning of public worship, however, we will obey the law and I hope and pray that the collective measures being imposed will have the desired effect.

Worcester Cathedral received a mention in the commons from former Prime Minister Theresa May yesterday.

Mrs May was speaking at Prime Minister’s Questions, where she asked why churches in Britain cannot meet under the new lockdown rules.

She asked why Remembrance Day services have to be live-streamed and asked why residents cannot congregate to pay their respects. She said: “Surely those men and women who laid down their lives for our freedoms deserve better than this?"

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