CHURCHES in Redditch, Alcester and Studley are looking at innovative way to help people through the current crisis after services were this week suspended across the UK.
“THESE are unusual times, and they come at a moment when people might be looking to engage with something which in the past they didn’t feel they needed to,” said the Rev. Paul Lawlor, vicar of St Stephen’s Church and Redditch town centre chaplain.
“We need to look after each other, friends and neighbours, as well as we can do.
“We are a Church that is used to meeting every Sunday – should that be our main thing? In many ways we are presented with an opportunity here to look at new ways of serving people,” he added.
He added that across the borough clergy were looking at different ways to help people on their spiritual journey.
“As a clergy we plan to gather in small groups of two or three and enact services and streaming these so people can still take part.
“We have not stop praying and we will also be using paper for those who do not use the internet.”
At a meeting of Churches Together in Redditch Leaders, chaired by Rev. Dan Yarnell, had already concluded that the annual Good Friday Walk of Witness in Redditch would become a virtual walk of witness.
“Resources will be provided by online video and in print to allow people to connect with the Easter narrative, we hope in a fresh and powerful way,” said Rev. Lawlor.
“Our churches across Redditch will be seeking to provide, prayer, spiritual and, as far as we are able, practical support to the community at this challenging time.”
He added that clergy were still awaiting clarification regarding the conduct of weddings, baptisms and funerals.
