DROITWICH’S St Andrews Church has put plans in place for alternative ways for people to pray and worship following the announcement by the Church of England to suspend all services in the UK until further notice.
Only weddings and funerals can take place but some people are missing attending those because of self-isolation.
And Rev Nigel Byard said people had responded positively to the news.
“I think there is some quiet acceptance.
“Some of the people are coming to terms with the need to self-isolate.
“People are acting with resilience and common sense as they deal with the situation we have.
“We are looking at ways we can reach out to our parishioners without having to physically meet.”
The Parish Centre is being used as a hub to keep in touch with the isolated and vulnerable during the coronavirus outbreak.
A team of volunteers will be available to offer spiritual and practical support, prayer and a listening ear, along with help collecting shopping and prescriptions.
The centre can be contacted between 9.30am and 12.30pm Monday to Friday by calling 01905 794952, emailing [email protected] or visit saltwayteam.org.uk.
Rev Byard added as well as talking to people over the phone, the church was also examining the prospect of streaming services and putting aside 10am everyday for prayers which would be said by him or Rev Laura Handy.
“We are inviting people to join us by praying at the same time so even though we are not in the same room, we will still be collectively praying.”
The church is also letting people know about worship and prayer resources available for use at home.
Among them are the BBC’s Daily Service and Sunday Worship and at the Church of England’s website – churchofengland.org – there is Prayer for the Day, daily prayer, coronavirus liturgy and other resources.
