More stringent measures bordering on a full lockdown are in effect in Belgium from 18th March noon until 5th April, and during that period congregations are learning new ways to be the Church. We are passing on a message from The Revd Stephen Murray, Chaplain in Ghent and Area Dean for Belgium and Luxembourg, as well as Vice-President of the Central Committee.

“Dear all,

It has been amazing to see such an outpouring of effective and creative ministry across the Deanery. This is truly a moment for us to shine God's light in ways we've never done before.

In Luxembourg, they were able to worship in a park. Hopefully, there was liturgical hand-washing as part of the service?

Tervuren made a slick YouTube video worship.

Liège has seen their bible study numbers increase dramatically by using Zoom, and also posting worship on YouTube.

Gent posted a 'Choose-Your-Own-Bits' worship on a Facebook & YouTube playlist.

MTS Antwerpen has been findings ways to make contact with sailors without visiting on the ships.

Holy Trinity Brussels is offering regular pray on Zoom.

Every weekday morning at 9AM https://zoom.us/j/687886770

And every weekday evening at 9PM, for compline https://zoom.us/j/114667614

They will be using the "Time to Pray" app from the Church of England. Or, you could also use the Church of England's prayer page: https://www.churchofengland.org/…/join-us-service-daily-pra…

Once this disease is finally behind us, we should have a Learning Lab to discuss everything that we've learned and how we might apply that learning in the future.

There is a lot of confusing information going around, but I just want to say thanks to each of you for your ministry in this difficult time.

If there are any new developments we will try to keep you posted. Likewise, please do be in touch if there is anything you need.

Peace & blessings,

Stephen

(go wash your hands!)”