The Church of England has taken “On-line church services” to a new height by giving them a lo-fi tweak, offering dial-up church services for those who don’t have access to online services while churches are closed due to the coronavirus.
Once people call in, they’re met with a host of options to chose from and would select that which interests them the most. If they do have limited access to the internet, but not enough to stream a service, they are also able to download the order of service, which has the relevant information, such as song lyrics, introduction, sermon transcript, reader and response, scripture readings, etc.
The Daily Hope is available 24 hours a day, on 0800 804 8044, and here are the options;
- #1. This is a collection of short talks based on well-loved hymns.
- #2. Daily recorded hymns set on a loop.
- #3 Prayer line that lets you listen to recorded prayers that are specific and relevant to the coronavirus.
- #4 Gives the rest of the options.
- # 5 Lets you listen to the Church of Englands weekly service.
- #6. The lets you listen to traditional morning and evening prayers and not ones specifically about COVID-19.
- #7. Listen to government advice, recommendations and orders on coronavirus.
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said phone-service was specifically designed to support elderly Brits who are unable to join online church services or who have never even used the internet before in the advent of all churches being closed, stating:
“With many in our country on lockdown, it’s important that we support those who are feeling lonely and isolated, whatever age they are.
“The Daily Hope service will allow people to hear hymns, prayers and words that offer comfort and hope, especially in this Easter season.
“I want to urge people to spread the news about this service. If there is someone you know who is particularly struggling, give them a call and let them know about the Daily Hope. I’m going to phone a friend; will you join me?”
