North Bay's Trinity United Church has gone virtual, to connect with their congregation, or anyone else seeking the spirituality they're missing by being at home during the COVID-19 situation.
Reverend Ted Harrison says they did their first "virtual service" on Sunday, March 22nd, and this Easter Sunday will be their fourth.
"The great surprise was how wildly responsive people have been to our digital services. We have volunteers from our congregation and beyond, willing to offer songs, prayers, and scripture readings. It's not just me droning on," says Harrison, well-known for his sense of humour in his delivery.
Harrison says they are fortunate to have the technical talent within their parishioners.
"One of the guys at our church is amazingly gifted. John Roberts serves as our digital producer."
Harrison already had what's called a "green screen" from doing some outreach videos for remote areas. They pulled the screen out, and he's been doing his work from home, like many of us. He`s able to have the view of the church in the background.
"The green screen allows us to create a fulsome experience for the viewer. It's not deceptive, I mean they know it's virtual. But it gives an experience that gives people a sense of their spiritual home. it`s their sanctuary, it can be very safe and comforting," he adds.
He says people may need a sense of comfort now more than ever, as we face this unexpected and unknown situation together.
"We may be physically distanced, but we can be visually connected and spiritually connected," explains the reverend.
Anyone who wants to connect can visit their website or their YouTube Channel.
