Some worshippers were happy to return to church today for the first Sunday of in-person service in about ten weeks, however, there was a general cautious approach.
The break resulted from a national lockdown followed by a partial re-opening of the country as health officials try to curb an increase in cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) which began in late December.
At Restoration Ministries in Brittons Hill, St Michael, Reverend Dr David Durant said he was heartened by the response.
“People are excited to be back. As soon as the Prime Minister gave the go ahead, calls were coming in and that was a blessing on my spirit,” he said, adding online had its place but could not replace in-person sessions
Under the latest regulations, churches can only host a maximum of 75 people who must have six feet of distance between them. The previous restriction was three feet.
Durant said they were fully booked and had no choice but to turn some people away but those people would have first choice next week.
There was still general caution exhibited by churchgoers, however, as some churches did not have the 75 congregants allowed. Reverend Dr Adrian Smith of Calvary Moravian in Roebuck Street, The City said they had around 50 people registered, though he was anticipating more as Easter approached.
“Fewer people have come out compared to last year as I think many are still somewhat hesitant. Palm Sunday and Easter are usually high attendance services so I expect people will come then,” he said.
Smith said Calvary Moravian had been streaming its services long before COVID-19 was an issue, so while there was merit in physically being in church, he was not discouraged by the numbers. (CA)
