North Coast churches say ‘God will lead the way’ as new normal sets in

If lockdown has proven anything, it is that North Coast churches are resilient.

Churches were allowed to resume in-person services under lockdown level 3 regulations, implemented in June, but only a few have taken the plunge.

Despite not being able to host services since March these communities have grown in numbers, with more and more people taking advantage of the online offerings.

Now under Level 2, while a few churches have returned to providing in-attendance services, most have stuck with the hybrid offer of online and have even gained international audiences.

Last Sunday the Courier visited Church Alive Ballito, where people had already pre-registered to attend one of the two services scheduled for the day.

After observing Covid-19 screening, worshipers made their way to their seats soon to start singing and praising.

“While we used to have an average of between 350 to 450 congregants prior to lockdown, regulations are being followed and we stick to the current limit of 50,” said pastor Mark Roger’s wife, Debbie.

The church service is still streamed on online platforms such as YouTube. Additional services are being held during the week to cater for the elderly and others unable to leave their homes.

Leef Gemeente Ballito, also now open, has been active in Ballito for 5 years and said they had missed having a congregation attending physically.

“Covid-19 has seen us take everything step by step all while relying on Jesus as our guide,” said pastor Evlyn Hodgson. 

To provide services weekly, Pastor Hodgson pre-records services for online on a Saturday, which are streamed via YouTube and Facebook on Sundays, with the same message being shared in church.

“This virus has brought all the churches closer together and we gather and pray for the country and front-line personnel at Netcare Alberlito every Sunday,” said Hodgson.

Linc Church Ballito campus pastor, Catherine Slevin said that they had been well prepared, already offering online services before lockdown. Despite this, they still had to make major adjustments.

Pastor Slevin said they had been offering drive-thru communion and prayer and very recently, an online booking for seats in-house.

“It has been a very emotional journey for us. We really missed being able to have church the way we used to before lockdown. Collective worship is a powerful thing.”

Linc Church’s auditorium, capable of seating 500 people, is now limited to 50.

Churchgoers said they were overjoyed at the return of physical attendance of churches, such as is the case with Ballito local Sarie Garzancich.

“The shift to online was instant, and we never missed out but, although it has been great bringing God into our home more than before we missed being able to attend at Church Alive Ballito in person.”

Others who have not been able to attend church for various reasons, instead continue to worship through online offerings.

This is the case for Dominique Fischerdick, who has been unable to attend church in person since before lockdown.

“Unfortunately my son Matthew suffers from asthma and we have put his health first,” she said.

But according to Dominique, lockdown has made them realise what is important as she continues her own efforts as a part-time Christian life coach by spreading the message of God via WhatsApp support groups.