From Premier News

Rt Rev Michael Nazir Ali, the former Bishop of Rochester, has asked why having churches open is "any more dangerous than shopping in a supermarket or travelling on the London Underground?"

The Anglican clergyman argues in a letter in The Telegraph that people's spiritual needs are linked to their physical health and that "being unable to work doesn't just hit the pocket, it injures the soul".

He added that Easter parades should be allowed to go ahead (with social distancing rules applied) and small groups of Christians should be allowed to gather in open spaces, keeping two metres apart.

Nazir Ali told Premier Christian News: "It's quite nuanced - I'm not saying that safe distancing should not be observed, but why discriminate against churches? I'm not suggesting anything remotely of the kind that's going on in Tesco or Sainsbury's or Asda. So, why is it any more irresponsible? Or do we not think that the spiritual is as important as the physical?"

He has called on church leaders who closed their buildings to "undo this mistake." writing: "Going to church is not the same as going to a pub or a football match. Provided that safe distancing is possible and is maintained, this is exactly the time when people will feel the need to go in and be quiet and, perchance, to pray for themselves or a loved one or even the situation as a whole. Why is this any more dangerous than shopping in a supermarket or travelling on the London Underground?"

He continued: "If we can't gather in our churches, could small groups, keeping a safe distance, be allowed to congregate in parks, large churchyards and other open spaces? Again, safety measures could be specified, but such rejoicing in the new life brought by the risen Christ could herald a turning point in the battle against this pandemic and set the tone for the rest of the spring.

"All of this may sound radical to some, but these proposals are designed to alert us to spiritual resources to fight the pandemic, and to turn us towards the one who holds the whole world in his hands."

The former bishop added that his Easter weekend plans involve singing 'When I survey the wondrous cross' outside his gate and that "If neighbours want to come out and join my horrible singing well that'll probably improve it."

The travel restrictions introduced by the Government are to reduce the spread of infections. Using public transport to attend work for key workers or going to a supermarket to get the weekly shop is a necessary risk. Going to church/mosque/synagogue to pray to an imaginary god is hardly essential.

Originally Posted by donkey22

The travel restrictions introduced by the Government are to reduce the spread of infections. Using public transport to attend work for key workers or going to a supermarket to get the weekly shop is a necessary risk. Going to church/mosque/synagogue to pray to an imaginary god is hardly essential.

For once I totally 100% agree with you. Make the most of it.

The short answer is: No!!!
The long answer is: Nooooooooo!!!

Originally Posted by justbecause

For once I totally 100% agree with you. Make the most of it.

I’m sure it’s only a temporary blip, but I’ll enjoy it while it lasts.

Originally Posted by donkey22

The travel restrictions introduced by the Government are to reduce the spread of infections. Using public transport to attend work for key workers or going to a supermarket to get the weekly shop is a necessary risk. Going to church/mosque/synagogue to pray to an imaginary god is hardly essential.

https://youtu.be/IZeWPScnolo

No...



there that was easy.

When I was forced to imbibe in Religion at school it was suggested that if you kneel down clasp your hands together you are immediately connected and you can tell him/her/it all your problems receive no reply but are instantly made to feel better. So I don't see any need for the religious to gather together D-I-Y is the answer and you can do it in the comfort of your own home.

Perhaps you could couple your talk with God to when Mr Rotorvator is on tv as ANYTHING is better than watching that utter bufoon.

I call him Mr Rotorvator because there is more turning over done when he appears.