Churches are emerging from three months winter and cautiously starting to meet again.

One of the welcome signs of spring has been the reopening of Tamworth's Op Shops. There are hoops to jump through, someone at the door to count heads, hand sanitiser and scrupulous cleaning. But nobody minds.

Jenny Cross from the Salvation Army Family Store reports many enthusiastic regulars and new customers, grateful for the warm clothes and warm reception.

Some of the regulars live lonely lives and may not talk to anyone from one visit to the next. Sometimes the emotions are so strong the shop is a safe haven to sit with someone and pour it all out.

Vinnies in Peel St (but not Bridge St) is open again Monday to Friday.

The store has a dual ethos to raise money for their welfare work among the needy and to show God's love to people by doing Jesus work in a Jesus way.

All the op shops are run by volunteers and are glad to welcome new helpers. Many have testified to a renewed lease of life through being part of the community of helpers.

The Uniting Op Shop in Darling St is getting ready to open with rigorous cleaning training and re-arrangement. The shop provides much-needed resources for the uniting Church's welfare and mission work.

St John's Op Shop in Carthage St opens Monday to Wednesday. Manager Carol Bryce reports they have been inundated with happy shoppers and donors.

"It's a mission to the people of Tamworth", says Carol.

"It's good quality winter clothing at reasonable prices to help the family through the winter months. A chance to serve God and people."

The ethos is summed up in their morning prayer. "May your love touch each person who comes to browse and shop. May I as a volunteer always be your voice, your hands, and your heart to all our customers. In us may they see Jesus."