On the eve of school closures across the diocese, the Bishop of Birkenhead, Keith Sinclair, has written to head teachers to offer personal prayer and encouragement.
His letter reads:
The news that schools, including our church schools, are having to close due to the Coronavirus pandemic is going to pose a huge challenge for many families. I am sure that we understand why this step has been taken. It is vital to keep everyone as safe as possible. But there will be a lot of adjustment as families make alternative arrangements for childcare. There is also particular uncertainty for those children who would have been sitting exams this summer.
We are not sure how long this situation is going to last. But we need to remember one another, and make sure that as far as we are able we look after the needs of the vulnerable.
I will be praying for everyone affected by this situation, and I would invite others to join me. Please remember children, their families and carers, the wonderful staff in our schools, some of whom will still be working to care for the children of key workers, and the wider community.
In all of this, our God remains faithful. He loves each one of us from the oldest to the youngest, and by his love and strength we will get through this. These ancient words from the Old Testament, written during a national crisis, are as true today as when they were written:
"I have hope when I think of this: the Lord’s love never ends; his mercies never stop. They are new every morning."
Lamentations 3:22-23
May God bless you and keep you safe,
Bishop Keith
