I share the frustration of an increasing number confused by the contradictory messaging of this Government’s guidelines for tiers of lockdown.

Only recently after six months of their doors being locked have our churches re-opened. The same ruling has applied to other places of worship in synagogues, mosques and temples. Such a prohibition came at a time when the faithful and fearful both needed the solace and comfort of praying and sharing together through this crisis. Nevertheless, in some parts of the country the buildings have accommodated food banks, craft groups, cafes and post offices to care for lonely souls distanced from families in other parts of the UK.

Our Churches Together events like the Big Tent, Howard Road and taking part in the Street Fair during the summer did not happen.

Now we have deep cleaning of churches, between occasional services and signing up by numbers to attend.

Many of us over age are asking what are our churches are for when we need friendship and the physical company of others, who find keeping up with modern technology challenging. In the past the church was the centre of the village or town, it provided for the poor and, of course, the care of those parishioners in times of sadness and suffering. It seems today’s ministry is to the under age but detached from those with disabilities or dementia. What Wellington Churches Together is all about, is what it says on the tin! It is not prescriptive, tradition-biased or in favour of one generation over another. We are all God’s children deserving of equal pastoral care.

I am blessed with a ‘gardening angel’, who shares her Lord’s compassion and kindness. We all need Angels, those Messengers from God who bring us Hope. You may find one in a shop or home near you this Christmas, in care homes and schools, and even in church!

ISABEL WARD

Mantle Street, Wellington