church re-opening

Hello everyone! We have just been given permission by Presbytery (on Friday afternoon at 4.45pm!) to reopen Yetholm Kirk. We plan to have a service this Sunday at 10 am. We may have to wait a little longer before we reopen Morebattle, though everything is in place.
It will be exciting to be able to gather in church again, but please be aware that it will initially be very different. Safety is paramount, and the buildings will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before and after each service. Only come to church when you feel comfortable to do so. I cannot stress enough that we should not feel any pressure to come. Please note the following safety measures:

• Services will be shorter, lasting only about 30 minutes.
• On arrival, you will be asked to sanitise your hands. We will also take a note of your name and contact details for the Test and Protect system..
• You are asked to wear a face covering. Please bring your own, though some will also be available at the door.
• You will be asked to sit on a designated seat/ pew, starting from the front.
• There will be no singing, but the organ can be  played.
• Numbers will be limited to 22 (Morebattle) and 27 (Yetholm) in order to keep social distancing (unless the government reduces the 2m distance). We have to keep to these numbers.
• The offering will be taken as we leave the church. We will be asked to leave from the back row first.
• There will be a one-way system in Yetholm, coming in the side door and leaving by the main door. Those on door duty will give directions.
• There will be no refreshments after the service.

I am sorry if this all seems very prescriptive, but we want to ensure your safety. The good thing, though, is that we will be able to meet again.