Millie Grimmett, secretary and member of the leadership (eldership) at The Church of Christ the Servant in Abbey Meads, Wiltshire, spoke with Simon Peters, project manager for Walking the Way, about how this Methodist/URC Local Ecumenical Partnership has responded to the current situation, which has called on skills and talents from her every day, working life:
‘A sense of connection and conversation really matters,’ said Millie,‘ so not being able to see each other as a community has been really difficult.’
Millie explained that some of the most important times in the life of the congregation have usually come during tea and coffee before, during or after events or gatherings, when people can relax and enjoy each other’s company. This, of course, can’t happen right now.
Millie explained that the minister isn’t too tech savvy, but Millie has been able to offer some help in this regard as she uses a lot of technology in her day job.
‘As a result of this, a lot of what our church offered prior to this crisis was online anyway, which has made the transition to more virtual communication a lot easier. Our church’s WhatsApp has been especially helpful as a place for conversation, raising questions and gaining a sense of continuing connection with each other.’
There are lots of special needs and disabilities represented within the life of the congregation, and the church is glad that it has been able to continue catering for their needs during this difficult period.
‘We’re also finding that people who used to connect with us are using this opportunity to reconnect with us, which is really exciting. It seems that people appreciate something they can do, join or attend in their own time and space.’
‘It’s also been good that the church’s leaders (elders) have been able to continue, through technology, phone calls and dropping thigs off, to keep looking after the people they are responsible for.’
‘There is no doubt that our sense of fellowship has increased during this time.’
What skills do you have in your everyday life which could be used to help others during this time of lockdown? Could you write, make or film something to share your talent with others, to offer comfort, hope or humour? Let us know how you get on.
