The Advisory Group of the Scottish Episcopal Church and the College of Bishops acknowledge today’s statement from the First Minister giving further details of the timetable for enacting Phase 3 of the Route Map out of lockdown following the coronavirus pandemic.

In particular, it is noted that the date for easing restrictions on places of worship for communal prayer, congregational services and contemplation has been brought forward to 15 July.

The Advisory Group and the College of Bishops issued a set of guidelines for Phase 3 last week, along with a pro forma Plan document, and Pastoral Guidance. These documents will now be re-assessed in light of today’s announcement, and where appropriate, we expect to issue revised versions by the end of tomorrow [Friday 10 July].