Public Statement
Anglican Sydney Diocese Archbishop Glenn Davies
18/03/20
"In light of the Prime Minister’s announcement this morning, banning enclosed gatherings in excess of 100 people, I have decided that the Anglican Church in Sydney should suspend all public church gatherings until further notice.
We are encouraging all our churches to consider providing their services online or by other communication methods. We shall make every effort to care for our church communities and the wider public, especially those who are isolated and vulnerable. Anglicare Sydney will continue its vital work of showing Christ's love in ministering to all people, especially older Australians. Anglican Schools will also continue to play a significant role in caring for students and families."
Closed
Church
It's 6pm on a Sunday, at St Matthew's West Pennant Hills it's time to start the Evening service. Tonight however the sanctuary is dark, the front door is closed.
There are 6 people in total in the church
No one else will show up to the church tonight but 122 people will join them in worship.
Much has changed in the world since the 18th of March there were only 566 COVID19 cases in Australia and the country was about to enter an almost unprecedented period of lockdown and social Isolation.
The Australian COVID19 lockdown is not unique, and has meant much of society has shutdown or moved online to reduce social interaction. Churches and their services are no different and have also been forced to change.
It's 5:30pm the last people have arrived for the night, the host for tonight.
As with any production the time leading up to the event is spent getting the final items into place. Lyrics for the hymns have to be confirmed and located, in the world of Zoom computer sound and camera needs to be checked.
6:01 time to start after waiting just a bit to allow any late comers to join before the service starts in earnest. '
Songs and sermons are both pre recorded elements screen shared within the zoom call
7:10 the service is over but conversations within the congregation continue. whilst that is occurring on the call in the church members of the ministry team and volunteers begin to design the services for future weeks
