Welcome to St James, Milnrow.

2019 has been a challenge for everyone. Thank you for being so understanding as we progress through this unprecedented pandemic and thank you for playing your part in staying safe and ensuring the safety of everyone around you.

We would like to assure you that St James is doing all it can to ensure your safety every time you enter the building. The Church of England COVID Risk Assessment was conducted prior to the recommencing of services on Sunday 5th July 2020 and the reintroduction of Parish Eucharist on 24th July 2020. The risk assessment can be reviewed here.


St James now celebrates Said Eucharist as follows:

Sunday, 9am

Wednesday, 10am


Baptisms, weddings, and funerals can be arranged, following national guidance, after discussion with Rev Janet Pitman.

How can we assure you of your safety?

• Every Saturday the church is given a full antiviral clean by our small, but dedicated team of cleaners. All pews and high touch surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.


• We request everyone entering church wears a face covering (nationally agreed exemptions apply).


• Alcohol hand gel is available on entry at the main entrance.


• We request that everyone provides contact details for the specific use with NHS Test and Trace. These details will only be retained for 21 days from the date of the service attended.


• We request everyone follows safe distancing guidelines at all times.


• Seating is restricted – we maintain 2 empty rows of pews between each occupied pew.


• We operate a one-way system through church – entry through the main door and centre aisle, exit via the side aisles.


• Hymn books and reusable service sheets have been removed from use.


• Services are ‘Said’ with no singing of hymns.


• Sharing of ‘The Peace’ will be non-contact i.e. a wave.

As always, and especially during these difficult times, we welcome everyone to St James. No one should feel compelled to attend services. We recognize some of you may well be very anxious, but be assured, we have done everything to keep you safe. Similarly, there is no problem in attending a service and refraining from taking the sacraments.


Please continue to be vigilant using regular hand hygiene, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing.