In an unprecedented move, church leaders came together on Wednesday 1st April. The morning video conference included senior religious leaders from around Britain and Ireland who shared the situation in each of their jurisdictions. The initiative originated with Archbishop Justin Welby who wanted to offer an opportunity for leaders to hear and support one another in these critical days for our nations.

The afternoon video meeting of senior officers of many of the churches included discussions about on-line worship, pastoral care in hospitals, funeral arrangements in various places, along with information on furlough arrangements being considered by some churches.

The statement is supported by churches in membership of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, along with Churches Together in England, Cytun, ACTS and the Irish Council of Churches.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Bob Fyffe (CTBI) at bob.fyffe@ctbi.org.uk or on 07940660099

Contacts within the nations include

Aled Edwards (Cytun) aled@cytun.cymru

Paul Goodliff (CTE) paul.goodliff@cte.org.uk

Nicola Brady (ICC) nicola@irishchurches.org

John McPake (Scottish rep) jmcpake@churchofscotland.org.uk