During the past few weeks, in the face of isolation and lockdown, it has been extraordinary to see the resilience, determination and imagination of many URC congregations shine through as they have sought to respond to the uncertainty, physical division and emotional stress which these times bring.

Some responses have been out of the ordinary, such as moving the regular Community Sing-a-long at St Martin’s Church, East Dorset, onto local radio, and St Paul’s Church Bracknell who hosted a virtual pudding evening for Earth Day online, more about which will be shared in the coming weeks.

However, the majority of responses, though relatively simple, are making a huge difference in keeping opportunities open for communities to worship together, share in fellowship, cater for the needs of different groups in the community and continue to comfort each other through this period.

‘The number of churches using social media, video sharing and online conferencing facilities to offer worship, fellowship and other support during this time has been amazing,’ says Simon Peters, project manager for Walking the Way. ‘The churches which I have spoken to about their innovative responses online tend to report around a 10% increase in the number of people participating in such activity as a result of these offerings’ he added. ‘A welcome positive in a time of uncertainty.’

Many have been quick to offer a reminder of the power which older technology has too. Many congregation and community members are enjoying support from their local URC over the phone, either for a regular chat about how things are going, a prayer, or even a full worship service through conference call facilities.

The URC’s Daily Devotions is releasing a podcast and printable version of a worship service every week for people to participate in. Many have enjoyed receiving physical copies of these in the post, allowing everyone to feel connected regardless of their technical ability.

There will be much for us all to learn throughout this time about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus in every aspect of our everyday reality especially when that reality looks so different than what we’re used to.

Continue to check the URC’s dedicated coronavirus webpage for the latest advice, stories and resources to support you and your congregation through these challenging times.