St German's News - 2 August 2020

Public Worship - The pandemic, it is clear, has not gone away and is very much still with us.  Please attend carefully to the safety instructions, posters and guidance from stewards and parish officers during the services.  During Holy Communion please stay in your seats and Fr Phelim will bring Holy Communion to you.  Social distancing remains our key safety precaution.  Face coverings may be worn,  according to Welsh government guidance, but are not compulsory.   We are not yet able to share communion from the chalice or exchange the peace.  Recorded hymns will be played but we can’t yet sing along with them.                                                                                                       
Funerals, Baptisms and Weddings-  Are also now permitted but there are still very strict and separate guidelines for each service.  The risk assessment for funerals has now been approved but not we are not yet ready for baptisms and weddings.  For funerals the key changes are that no Requiem Masses are permitted as yet.  Also, attendance at church based funerals is strictly by invitation only.  For more details see Fr Phelim.                  
Memorial Garden - the summer season has resulted in a lot of growth which is wonderful to behold.  Many thanks to those who are currently maintaining and restraining the growth of shrubs and weeds.  We are also exploring more social use of the garden and especially now given the news that up to 30 individuals can gather outdoors.  If  you would be willing to join in to such an event please let us know.  Ideas so far: BBQs, Cream Teas, Pizza Nights etc. 
PCC Meeting - next  meets on Monday 3 August at 7pm on zoom.  We will discuss the memorial garden, church and hall re-opening, finances, and also how our ministry and service to the local community and neighbourhood might adapt to the pandemic and recent experience of lockdown. See Fr Phelim for details.                     
Year of Pilgrimage - We had planned to go to Rome as in previous years yet this is unlikely for the foreseeable future.  Instead, we would like a St German’s pilgrimage day (or days) to take place.  Caldey Island is also not open this year to pilgrims.  If you have any suggestions for a local or regional pilgrimage please let Fr Phelim know.                     
Faith Nurturing - Next meets on Wed 12 August looking at ‘In Search of a Way’ by Gerard Hughes SJ. at 7pm via Zoom. Contact Fr Phelim for details.  We’ll look at chapters -4-6.         
​Recently Departed - Dorothy French, Joan Bennett, Beryl Olive Bridges (RIP)