Taunton’s Civic church will be opening its doors for people to pay their respects following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh.
St Mary Magdalene’s, which has been closed to the public since Christmas Day will be open tomorrow Saturday 10th of April from 8.30am until 6pm to allow people to light a candle or sign a book of condolence.
The vicar of St Mary’s, Rev Tobie Osmond, has told Tone News:
The Duke was held in high regard by many. We understand that people will want to mark his passing and it seemed proper that we should reopen the church building despite the present problems caused by COVID 19.
The church building will be open to the public on each of the eight days of National mourning, though we may vary the exact hours depending on demand. There will be an opportunity to light a candle and to sign a book of condolence.
HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was held in high regard by many. It is understandable, therefore, that people will want to mark his passing so the church will be open at various times during the week for those who wish to pay their respects.
Monday to Thursday 12th – 15th April
The church will be open from 10am until 1pm.
The coffee shop will be open for takeaway only.
The bookshop will be open Tuesday to Thursday morning.
On Friday and Saturday 16th/17th April, 10am to 1pm, there will be no book shop or coffee shop, the focus will be purely for those wishing to pay their respects for HRH Prince Philip and to offer private prayer for Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family.
Friday 16th at 6pm
There will be a live streamed service from Wells Cathedral. This may be accessed via their website.
Sunday 18th April
The church will be open for worship – scheduled services at 08 00 and 10 00.
Unfortunately we are unable to have a book of condolence in church, but you may submit a message on the Church of England website: https://www.churchofengland.org/remembering-his-royal-highness-prince-philip?fbclid=IwAR2Ee9vBJL3lWbvaHSAkpOmB7XqjYc4 … There will also be a QR code available in church and in the notice board outside.
To minimise risk, entry will be via the main West Door (under the tower) and, following a one-way system, exit will be through the South Door. Stewards will be on duty to guide and assist visitors.
Everyone is required to wear a mask while queuing to enter and while in the building, unless exempt under government regulations. Equally everyone is asked to sanitise their hands on entering the church.
Please respect social distancing and remain 2m from others whenever possible.
