A letter from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York advises priests to suspend the use of the shared chalice – known as the ‘common cup’ – as well as physical contact during the sharing of the peace when traditionally worshippers turn to each other during a service and shake hands.

The Archbishops are also advising that priests should suspend direct physical contact as part of a blessing or ‘laying on of hands’.

The Diocese of Lincoln is following this advice, and the full advice, including a letter from the Archbishops, may be found here.

Parishes are advised to check on a regular basis for updated advice published on the Church of England website, which may be found here.

This item was published on 11th March 2020.