While churches and other faith communities are currently not open to the public, worship is still thriving thanks to live events that are offered on websites and Facebook pages.
In addition to live streaming services, many facilities are also offering Bible studies, daily devotionals and family game nights. "The church is not about a place where you gather - brick and mortar," said the Rev. Jimmy Smuda, pastor of Trinity Assembly of God (AG) Church in West Chester. "It's about the connection to one another and ultimately to God."
Trinity AG is currently offering live streaming of its Sunday service as well as online Bible devotions, prayer nights and more. All are invited to participate; it is not necessary to be a member of Trinity AG to join the programs.
So far, the online offerings have been well received by the congregation. "It's been encouraging to see," said Smuda. "Not just at our church, but all of our pastors from the local area have done a fantastic job connecting to their people."
He said that when people are struggling, faith can provide comfort. "I don't know why this is happening," Smuda shared. "What I do know is that my faith is what I put trust in - something higher than myself. We are promised through Scripture that no matter what, He is with us and that is where our comfort has to come in."
In addition to online activities, Trinity AG is offering Drive-By Prayer on Friday mornings. As part of the program, Trinity AG staff members will visit the homes of congregation members at their request. Residents are welcome to open the front door to say hello and join in prayer while maintaining the required social distance.
Smuda noted that on a recent Friday he visited the home of an elderly couple that has not left the house since the pandemic started, and they were excited for the visit. "It goes to show you God has not designed us to be alone," Smuda said. "God has designed us for community and togetherness. People miss that."
Individuals may access the services and other online programs at http://www.trinityag.org or http://www.facebook.com/TrinityAGWC.
Other local churches are also offering online services, including Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Coatesville. The church's 10:30 a.m. Sunday service can be viewed at at http://www.facebook.com/luthgoodshep.
Our Lady of Consolation Church in Parkesburg is live streaming daily Masses on weekdays at 8:30 a.m. To view the daily Mass, readers may search for "Our Lady of Consolation Church" on Facebook. Sunday Mass will be prerecorded and can be found on the church's YouTube Channel. Details can be found at http://www.olcchurch.org or on the Facebook page.
Freedom Life in Parkesburg is offering online worship services, children's programs, Bible studies, small groups and more. To view a schedule of events, readers may visit http://www.freedom.life/livestream.
Westminster Presbyterian Church in West Chester is live streaming worship services on Sundays at 9 and 11:10 a.m. and also on Wednesdays at 9:10 a.m. To access live streaming, readers may visit http://www.westminsterpc.org or http://www.facebook.com/westminsterwpc.
Beth Israel Congregation of Chester County is offering live streaming of Jewish services on Fridays at 6 p.m. and on Saturdays at 10 a.m. at http://www.facebook.com/BethIsraelofCC.
Churches and faith communities that would like their online services published in the Community Courier may email the details to ffulton@engleonline.com.
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