The churches of All Saints and St Thomas, the worship we offer in these places, and our ministry in Houghton Regis are signs of God’s presence – they witness of his enduring love in our town and the communities we serve.

Following new regulations from HM Government and Church of England authorities about Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have had to suspend all public worship and most pastoral offices in our churches (from 5 November 2020). However, we will still offer worship online on Facebook LIVE.
 
Mass (Public Celebration)
The public celebration of Mass is suspended. This is a very regrettable decision, and Church of England authorities have challenged the Government about this.
 
Mass (online), Worship, and Teaching
During lockdown we have taken Mass, other forms of worship, and Christian teaching online - on Facebook Live and YouTube. Mass will continue to be live streamed from St Thomas' Church at the following times:

•     Sundays and Holy Days at 10:00am
•     Weekdays at 8:30am

 
Opening of church buildings
According to Government advice churches across England can open for private prayer.

•     All Saints' Parish Church will be open to the public on certain days and with a few safety requirements put in place by the Church of England. Check our Facebook page for opening times.
•     St Thomas' Church on Lowry Drive remains closed to the public.

 
Baptisms
The celebration of scheduled Baptisms (Christenings) is suspended. Please contact the Parish Office to discuss baptisms after lockdown.
 
Baptisms (Emergency)
Baptisms of severely ill people who are reaching the end of their lives can take place. In these situations please contact the Parish Office on 01582867246 without delay!

Confessions
Confession (Sacrament of Reconciliation) is available. Please contact the Parish Office on 01582867246 to arrange a time with the Parish Priest.
 
Weddings
The celebration of scheduled Weddings is suspended.
 
Funerals
Funerals can take place in church. Only immediate family members and close friends can participate to the funeral service to facilitate social distancing - up to a maximum of 30.
Alternatively, funerals services can take place at Crematoria or at the graveside - where local restriction may apply.
 
Memorial Services
Memorial Services can take place in church. Only immediate family members and close friends can participate to the funeral service to facilitate social distancing - up to a maximum of 15.
 
Worship in Care Homes and Hospital Visits

• Worship in care homes is suspended as this would usually see a group of up to 10 church volunteers entering places of care and increasing the risk of spreading the virus.
• Hospital visits are suspended. Please, contact the Hospital Chaplaincy Team or hospital staff to arrange Pastoral Care on-site. The Luton and Dunstable University Hospital Chaplaincy team cah be reached by calling 01582497370, or via email chaplaincy@ldh.nhs.uk

 
Home Visits by the Parish Priest
Home visits by the Parish Priest (or a designated lay minister) are suspended according to Church of England guidance.
 
Ministry to the dying
Visits to those who are dying will continue wherever possible and allowed. Please, contact the Parish Office on 01582867246 without delay if you wish to request or discuss a visit.
 
 
As time progresses, these directives may be altered in accordance with advice from the Diocese of St Albans, HM Government, and Church of England guidelines.
Thank you for your co-operation.
 
Updated 4 November 2020
Created 18 March 2020

The Parish Barn Dance was held at the Peter Newton Pavilion in Dunstable on Saturday 9 June.
The evening featured a live band, lots of dancing, shared food, fun for the whole family, and a raffle. The yearly fundraising and social event was attended by many people, and it continues to grow in popularity thanks to a number of committed volunteers who organise this and various other activities through the year.
Photos below by Father Diego and Dr Matthew Hurley.