‘In the greatest confusion there is still an open channel to the soul. The channel is always there and it is our business to keep it open, to have access to the deepest part of ourselves.’
– Saul Bellow
Dear friends
I hope you have been able to rest and find some light in these gloomy days of winter and pandemic. I share the quote above from the Canadian-American author Saul Bellow, which has given me some comfort today.
We strive to be hopeful – it isn’t always possible in our darkest moments – even though we know there is more hardship to come.
Given the new national restrictions in response to persisting and indeed increasing covid infection rates, we have taken the decision to extend the temporary closure of our buildings to the public until early April. We will continue to review the decision as government guidance evolves, not least because in a few hours the Prime Minister is due to address the nation.
While our buildings are closed some staff continue to work behind the scenes. We are running new courses continue online and I hope that you will browse the calendar of events and join us.
The Sarum Library service will remain available via click & collect and postal borrowing as it has been throughout the past few months to all library members. The Sarum Library will be closed to all visits except in very limited circumstances and according to relevant tier restrictions for Ministry and Winchester students by agreed prior arrangement only.
We aim to use this temporary closure as constructively as we can, to improve our administration systems and prepare the buildings for re-opening.
We hope you will find something in our course offer to stimulate and inspire you during these days of limited options, and to find solace in the good company of the Sarum learning community while we cannot be together in person.
Warm wishes for the new year.
Sarum College Principal, The Revd Canon Professor James Woodward
4 January 2021