Many churches in region close down
A new vicar led his first service and potentially his last, for the forseeable future, at Timaru’s St Mary’s Church yesterday.
It is one of many churches in the district shutting its doors to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and planning how to help its over 70-year-old parishioners who will now be isolated.
Though churches which gather with fewer than 100 people can still meet, following the Government’s announcement on Saturday that over 70-year-olds and those with certain medical conditions should stay at home, many smaller churches have chosen to shut to protect elderly congregations.
Reverend Ben Randall moved to Timaru to take up the position at St Mary’s last Wednesday and was inducted on Friday.
He said it was emotional and ‘‘very surreal’’ to be in this ‘‘unique’’ position but he had not
regretted his decision to move to the area.
‘‘The church is far more than just gathering on a Sunday. It is a living community of people.
‘‘We will not be bowed or broken – we will step up and take care of people.’’
He said the church was particularly aware of the Government directive for people over 70s to stay at home for their own protection against the virus.
To ensure they were not lonely the church was organising phone trees for people without internet and ‘‘outreaches’’ for those online.
The vicar pointed out that church was the only organisation that existed for people who were not members and that would continue by helping people who needed it in the community.
Parishioner Leonie Litten said she was disappointed the church was suspending services.
‘‘Closing the church building will not close Christianity.’’
Parishioner Gilly Oppenhiem, the wife of former St Mary’s vicar Ray Oppenheim, said it was sad to see the church shut.
Timaru’s St John’s Church already has a communication strategy in place and assisting its elderly parishioners, Reverend Josh Taylor said.
Members have been asked to categorise themselves as: having the internet and being able to use it, having the internet but not knowing how to use it, and not having the internet or any interest in it.
Those who want to learn will be asked if they have any family members to assist them. If not, a small group in the congregation will guide them and for those not wanting it there will be a phone list circulated so they can stay in touch.
He said the church already had a pastoral care system and now they must be more ‘‘clever’’ about it.
‘‘Church hasn’t been cancelled. We’re just doing it differently.’’
Timaru Presbyterians ministry team leader Reverend Brent Richardson said about 60 per cent of parishioners were aged over 70 and they would be phoned to make sure they had what they needed.
Gleniti Baptist Church would also be remaining in contact with its members via phone, Associate Pastor Wendy Geeling said.
‘‘ We will not be bowed or broken – we will step up and take care of people.’’ Reverend Ben Randell