DURHAM Cathedral clergy have begun live streaming regular services from inside the cathedral, alongside continuing to do so from their homes.

This decision was made following the outcome of the Zoom meeting held last week, attended by of all Church of England bishops, and on the specific direction of the Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler.

At the meeting, plans were looked at for a phased approach to the lifting of restrictions relating to cathedrals and churches across the country, in parallel with the Government’s approach.

It was decided that an initial phase allowing very limited access to church buildings for activities such as streaming of services or private prayer by clergy in their own parishes should take immediate effect, so long as the necessary hygiene and social distancing precautions are taken.

In accordance with these conditions, members of Durham Cathedral clergy who plan to live stream from inside the building will do so unaccompanied, while observing best hygiene practices.

The Very Reverend Andrew Tremlett, Dean of Durham said: “We welcome the revised national guidance from the Church of England and are delighted to be able to lead worship once again from the Shrine of St Cuthbert.

"Every day we are joined online by a local and global congregation who look to Durham as a focal point for Christian spirituality in this part of the world. We looking forward to praying with them, whether from our homes or from within the cathedral.”

For the avoidance of doubt, at this stage Durham Cathedral remains closed to the public, including for private prayer.

The live-stream service schedule can be found at https://www.durhamcathedral.co.uk.