Lincoln Cathedral to reopen for private prayer

Lincoln Cathedral will open for individual private prayer and reflection from Monday, but communal acts of public worship are still not permitted.

Plans for a new one-way system were drawn up for the cathedral after the government announced that places of worship will be permitted to open for individual prayer in line with social distancing guidelines from June 15.

The cathedral has now confirmed that it will be able to welcome people through its doors again on Monday with the following opening times:

• Sunday – 10.30am-3pm
• Monday – Closed (except for June 15)
• Tuesday to Saturday – 10am-3pm

The first hour of opening between 10-11am Tuesday to Saturday is reserved for anyone who identifies as vulnerable.

The nave and retro-choir will be open to visitors, but other spaces in the building including the Chapter House, chapels and cloister will remain closed. The shop, refectory and toilets will also remain closed until further notice.

In addition to the new one-way system, hand sanitiser stations have been installed and there are limits on the number of people that may enter the building at any time.

Coronavirus safety measures at Lincoln Cathedral.

The Very Revd Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln, said: “The 12 weeks since the beginning of lockdown has been a strange time that has seen Lincoln Cathedral stand silent and empty for the first time in its history.

“We are delighted to be able to open wide our doors and welcome everyone back into this special place of worship, prayer and spiritual nurture. A place that is loved and cherished by so many as a symbol of homecoming, sanctuary and peace.”

Duty chaplains will be available during opening hours to respond to the pastoral needs of anyone visiting the cathedral. The cathedral has also added prayer boards at points around the building to help those who may be struggling to find words or know how to pray at this unsettling time.

Meanwhile, weekly online services will continue to be shared on the cathedral’s website and Facebook page every Sunday.