There doesn't seem to be a lot of action around the churches of Tamworth right now. But a lot is happening under the surface
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Sunday services have been shut down. In reality most churches are live streaming their services on zoom, YouTube or the church website. This is more than a weekly sermon. It is designed to bring the church members into the fullest possible experience of doing church together.
Small groups are mostly in recess. Home Bible studies, prayer meetings and youth groups are mostly not happening, though a few are meeting online. The Boys Brigade and Girls Brigade at Tamworth Community Presbyterian Church are holding their fortnightly parade online.
Most play groups, Mainly Music, men's groups, ladies groups are in recess. Scripture and SUPA Clubs in schools have stopped. Scripture Union Autumn Camps have been postponed.
The Salvation Army has closed all services and local activity groups including the Red Shield Store. However financial assistance is still available on 0456 629 531.
The Liberty Foodcare Shop in Robert Street is still open Monday to Friday from 9.30 till 2.30 pm with a limited number of shoppers at a time. Pastor James Ardill reports that sales have tripled since the pandemic began.
"We see it as an essential service", he said. "Not just selling food but serving people. Even if the doors shut, we will do our best to find a way to help people."
Liberty school is still open as are Calrossy and Carinya with the usual warnings. In fact teachers will be working hard over the holiday period to devise ways to deliver lessons to those at school and at home.
"But", says James, "while the activities are less visible, there is a huge network of people looking after each other and their neighbours. There is a heightened sense of one-on-one personal care and relationship that opens its arms to people of all kinds."