Churches: Online worship a blessing

EVEN with the reopening of places of worship across TT, religious leaders say that the introduction of online worship sessions has been a blessing in disguise.

They said such sessions will still continue to reduce the number of people congregating at churches as they now have been given the clearance to operate at a 50 per cent capacity.

On Saturday, the Prime Minister, in making the announcement during a press conference in Tobago, said all places of worship will resume services that should not last beyond an hour.

He said from Monday the religious bodies will also be operating at a 50 per cent capacity.

Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of TT Rev Joy Abdul-Mohan told Sunday Newsday they were overjoyed to hear such news and they are prepared to open their doors next Sunday.

Abdul-Mohan said she believes all religious institutions should be seen as essential. She said in the last few months churches have utilised online platforms that have gained a large following and this will also help to reduce the number of people in churches.

“The covid19 is a blessing in disguise where we have created online series in terms of counselling. We create g a platform for worship and out of covid we created a programme on YouTube and for those who may not return to church right away will have access to online services.”

Seventh-Day Adventist pastor Clive Dottin also echoed similar views saying that the introduction of online worship sessions has seen an rise in talent particularly from youth worshippers.

He said through the Zoom platform they are about to reach worshippers internationally and regionally. “I am happy to see churched reopening as they e are a lot of people anxious to come to church but we are blessed that has been one of the good things coming out of covid19.”

He said they plan to continue online worship sessions.

Baptist leader Bishop Leon William said that while is thankful for the move to reopen churches they will not be opening their doors soon as a method of precaution. He said online sessions have been successful for the church and it will continue.

“We have been using the Zoom platform and we are doing really well. The attendance e number has even increased In comparison with the number of people who would usually come to church before the pandemic.”