A community church in Peasedown St John is continuing to serve its local parishioners, providing help and advice week-by-week, despite being in lockdown.

With uncertainty as to when religious buildings will be able to re-open under the government’s plan to unlock the country, St John’s Anglican Church has taken most of its mid-week meetings, gatherings and services online.

Local Rector, Revd Matthew Street, said: “We’re determined to serve the needs of the village as best we can, despite not being able to open the doors of the church building.

A recent survey showed that life in lockdown throughout the UK has led to 1 in 4 Brits turning to religion for solace, support and answers! As a result, we’re seeing a lot more people watch us online than ever attended church each Sunday.”

At the end of March, St John’s launched the ‘Sunday Supplement’ – a weekly e-magazine publication with films and photos of what church members have been doing at home throughout the weekend. Released on the church’s You Tube channel and website every Sunday, the 20-minute production includes an introduction from Revd Street, a talk, prayers, and members of the church giving support to others who are in isolation.

Other weekly activities now online include ‘Soul Kids’ and ‘Little Ones’ – both tailored to children of different ages.

To watch St John’s Church’s ‘Sunday Supplement’, plus other online services visit www.stjsgroup.church

For details about St John’s Church, and its sister Anglican churches in Wellow, Shoscombe and Foxcote visit the benefice website: www.stjsgroup.church, or contact the Operations Manager Rob Bubyer by emailing [email protected]ch or calling 07973 972018.

By Journal Reporter