NI church forced to close after Covid outbreak

A church in Ballymoney has been forced to close due to a coronavirus outbreak in the congregation.
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Hebron Free Presbyterian is one of a number of churches in Northern Ireland known to have been affected by multiple cases of Covid-19.

Church minister Reverend David Park said he is unable to confirm the exact number of members who have contracted the disease, but did say there are several.

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In a statement to the News Letter on behalf of the church oversight, Rev Park said: “Sadly there has been an outbreak of COVID-19 among our church families.

Hebron Free Presbyterian Church in BallymoneyHebron Free Presbyterian Church in Ballymoney
Hebron Free Presbyterian Church in Ballymoney

“Since reopening after lockdown the church oversight put government recommendations into place.

“On Sunday 25th October we learned of two cases connected to the congregation.

“The Church has not held public services since. When we learned of multiple cases among our church families and in the Ballymoney area, we took decisive action.”

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Rev Park added: “The Church was professionally deep cleaned, a fogging machine was purchased for future sanitisation and the church remains closed. This is under constant review.”

Commenting on the outbreak, Ballymoney councillor Darryl Wilson said: “Unfortunately cases of Covid-19 have infiltrated every aspect of our personal and professional lives, and while the majority will recover from the illness, we all have a duty to protect those who fall into the vulnerable category including our family, friends, loved ones and work colleagues.

“I would therefore reiterate the call from public health officials for members of the public to adhere to public health guidance.”

Cllr Wilson added: “I would like to wish all impacted a full and speedy recovery “