Coronavirus Response

UPDATES on Use of Church Buildings, Church Worship & Risk Assessments 

The UK Government has published it's 'COVID-19: Guidance for the safe use of places of worship from 4 July' document - read it here. Baptists Together regularly update their 'Guidance on re-opening Baptist church buildings' leaflet (downloadable risk assessment template here) and their separate 'Guidance on Church Worship' leaflet. There is also guidance on risk assessments for church staff returning to work in the 'Guide for churches as employers' leaflet.

It is likely that many churches will consider that the implications of this guidance will not enable the desires of those who wish to return to public worship to be adequately met (no communal singing, no before/after service fellowship, strict hygiene and cleaning regulations, keeping registers of service attendees...). For this reason many will continue to use other methods of being church for the time being.

Those producing online content are finding the processes required time-consuming and exhausting. We have produced a new resource for churches to access and download video materials for services. We hope this will 'lighten the load' a little and be a blessing to service leaders and church members alike. Access our new 'Online Service Resources' here.

You may also like to take 8 mins to watch this reflection on where we find ourselves spiritually as a Church and society with reference to when, if and how we return to 'business as usual'. Take a look here.

What to do instead of gathering in person for worship

Consider the needs and ability of those in your congregation; who will be able to receive emails/texts/WhatsApp, who will be able to engage with internet-based worship, and who won’t?

For those who are technologically proficient enough to access the internet;

• Consider live-streaming an act of worship – a ‘how to’ guide is available here.
• Audio record/podcast a sermon/prayers etc. and email those in your church with a link so they can easily access them either on your church website or chosen podcast service provider.
• Video record a sermon/prayers etc. to upload to your church’s Facebook page / YouTube or Vimeo channel so they can be accessed whenever is convenient. (Be careful not to use copyrighted material).
• Email a suggested service outline so those in your congregation have the same bible reading, song suggestions (email YouTube links for worship songs), prayer outline, sermon notes and questions for consideration each week.
• Consider using Skype or Zoom for small group discussions through the week around your service theme. For a free online tutorial on how to use Zoom with your church, please click here.
• If you wish, suggest to those in your church that they join in with the Sunday morning worship from one of the other churches in our SWBA family. You might choose to do this regularly (maybe one Sunday each month) to allow leaders the opportunity to address other church matters rather taking the hours required to prepare and record a service. A list of those live-streaming services can be found here.
• There is also video content including sermons, prayers, children's talks, communion and recorded worship songs on our Online Service Resources page.
• We also have lots on video content on our Vimeo channel. We plan to add more content to this channel over the coming weeks so please keep checking back for new material.

For those who do not have access to the internet or who would struggle with the above suggestions;

• Print out a Service Outline including bible readings, song suggestions (choose songs that are well known and maybe print out the words), prayer outline, sermon notes and questions for consideration each week. Post this either in person or using a postal service.
• If you are able, record sermons, prayers etc. on to CD’s or DVD’s in a format that will easily work in a standard CD or DVD player and post them to those who would like them.

Reducing Isolation & Pastoral Care

Possibly more importantly, the coming weeks may well lead to many feeling isolated and lonely which could adversely affect the mental health of a lot of people. Please take a read of this advice on how to cope if you’re feeling anxious about the coronavirus outbreak and how to look after your mental health and wellbeing if you’re self-isolating.

As churches we can act to reduce isolation and bring hope in to a situation in which many are experiencing anxiety and fear. Here are a few suggestions of things you might like to consider doing as a church to pastorally care for others,

• Keep in contact with others regularly; by text, email, WhatsApp but especially in more personal ways which avoid physical contact such as phone calls.
• Many churches have previously used ‘Prayer Chains’ where one church member phones another who then phones another, and so on, with prayer requests. Such a system typically led to short but meaningful conversations with all those in the Prayer Chain in a relatively short period of time. This prayer activity might enhance relationships between those in your church and reduce the isolation of those who live alone. Please note that permission to share phone numbers must be gained from all those who will form a Prayer Chain.
• Ask those from your church in whom you have confidence (maybe from your Pastoral Care team) to make an agreed number of phone calls to others in the church each day/week. Particularly contact those who are house-bound and/or who live alone to ask if they’d like someone to phone them, and how regularly they’d like to receive a call – please do not keep on calling people if they have declined your offer to do so! Try to keep the calls to an agreed, manageable length. Appoint a Co-Ordinator to whom any specific concerns can be reported by those making the phones calls.
• Consider agreeing times when those in your church will pray regularly as an active member of a dispersed community. Praying in this way can create a positive sense of connectedness to others which serves to remind us that we are an active are part of a community even though we are not physically together. You might like to suggest using a daily Prayer Office such as the morning, midday and evening prayers produced by the Northumbria Community which thousands of people from across the world use each day – take a look here.

Mission

We have huge opportunities in these difficult times to demonstrate what the Kingdom of God looks and sounds like to those in our communities. Please pray and ask God to inspire you with his heart for those in your neighbourhood. It is good and right that we should do this as communities of people rather than acting alone. Some of our ideas for mission might seem fine to us but might not be the best approach to take. We would encourage you to talk with the Deacons/Leadership Team of your church if you have ideas for mission so as to create a co-ordinated approach and so that potential difficulties can be avoided as much as possible. We would urge you to carefully consider how to keep yourself safe and not to engage in any activities that may compromise your own health or that of others.

But we’d also encourage those in our family of churches to be creative and inspired by God as we join with his mission, and to passionately give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have, doing so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15), especially in these times when so many are fearful about the future.

Here are a few suggestions that you might like to consider as churches in the weeks ahead,

• Post ‘I Can Help’ cards through letterboxes in your neighbourhood. Several community groups across the U.K. have produced such cards which offer help to those who are self-isolating and/or house-bound. They may include things such as picking up shopping, making a friendly phone call or posting mail on request. An example can be downloaded here. Please only post these cards if as a church you are able to respond to the needs in your area. Please consider carefully how you might manage the resulting acts of kindness, especially if money is involved associated with things such paying for shopping which you are voluntarily delivering etc.
• Make & deliver food boxes to those in your area. You might want to contact your local food bank to ask how food parcels are getting to those who would normally collect them but who are now self-isolating. You might decide to make up boxes of essential items (soap, tissues, toilet paper, sanitary products, basic food items etc.) to deliver to those in need in your community. Please especially consider those who are over 70 years of age who are likely to be advised to voluntarily self-isolate making shopping challenging, particularly for those who cannot use the internet.
• Consider making and delivering meals to those in particular need. Charities such as ‘Make Lunch’ help churches engage with this issue but you might find your local food bank or other local charities already have links with agencies such as schools and social services in your area and have schemes in place which you can join in with.

Let’s recognise that we engage in these activities not simply because Christians are ‘nice’ but because they are tangible manifestations of God’s Kingdom in our communities which demonstrate his love and compassion for all.

Archive

1.12.20

Today's updates,

NEW: Guidance on Church Worship after 2/12/20 - the Lockdown in England ends on 2/12. The Baptist Union has published detailed updated guidance this week on the safe use our buildings for worship services and for Children & Youth Ministry (available through the links in the purple box below). There is also government guidance for Carol Singing which can be accessed here.

NEW: The BIG Community Carol Sing - This Christmas we can't take our neighbours along to our church Carol Services, but we can take the Carol Service to our neighbours on our street! This simple idea, based on the 'Clap for Carers', helps us engage those we live next to with the Christmas story, and bring a little joy to each of our streets too! Check out how it works and how you can join in here or on the Facebook page.

NEW: Advent UNITED Prayers - over 150 people gathered for Advent UNITED Prayers on Zoom and YouTube on Sun 29/11/20. It was good to start the Advent season by praying together. This was such an encouraging event! If you'd like to catch up with it, a recording is available here.

NEW: Mental Health, Children & YP - (Thurs 14/1/21, 7-9pm). We are working with Transforming Lives for Good (TLG) to offer you a free training event called, 'The Emotional Rollercoaster'. This is suitable for all but especially for any who are working with children and young people aged 8-14. It will offer therapeutic responses, approaches and activities to explore emotional health with children and young people and includes the PDF of a fantastic resource with ready-made session plans. It will be especially relevant for supporting children who have been impacted by lockdown and COVID-19. Book your free place here.

NEW: Pandemic Small Group Studies - Tim Sutton (Minister, Westward Ho! BC) has produced this booklet as a guide for Small Groups to attempt to make sense of the coronavirus pandemic. It is available for download here.

NEW: Blogs to make you think - All churches are facing a very challenging time as we attempt to navigate another national lockdown. Here are some thought-provoking articles that we think relate to the experiences of many in our churches at present...

• 'Streaming services is NOT the same as Online Church' -  click here.
• 'Bible teaching can happen at the table not just the pulpit' - click here.
• 'Do you have 'Holy FOMO'? - click here.
• 'Pastors, here's why everyone is mad at you right now' - click here.

16.10.20

Today's updates,

NEW: Guidance on Remembrance Services - The Government has issued new guidance to help those wishing to organise Remembrance Services this year - click here. There has also been updated guidance on the use of church buildings and gatherings for worship from Baptists Together. See the purple section below for links...

NEW: Bible Chat Mat - Bible Chat Mat allows people of all ages to read the Bible and have conversation together, whether around a meal table, sitting on the sofa or wherever works best. This activity can be done as a household, friends together, home group, Sunday group or even in a school club. The sheets can be coloured and doodled on, allowing you to respond to the Bible story in your own unique way. Take a look and download these free resources here.

NEW: Digital Mission webinars -  Hannah Fleming-Hill (the SWBA Digital Missioner) has led webinars helping churches think about a 'Digital Christmas'- to watch it click here - and also a webinar focusing on what 'Digital Resources' (free and paid) are available to churches to produce digital content for social media/websites, graphics for physical flyers, and tools for social media etc. Watch the webinar on this page or click here and find out more about Digital Mission and the resources we can offer you here.

NEW: Mental Health, Children & YP - Take a look at these excellent new resources on 'Lockdown Reflections' from Hannah Dengate and the team at Phase Hitchin for Primary & Secondary Schools and Church Youth Groups... click here.

NEW: Should churches even try to 'go back to normal'? - All churches are facing a very challenging time; what should they attempt to re-start as the lockdown is lifted? Maybe more fundamental questions about how we are God's people on his mission need to be asked first. Here are some articles outlining similar thoughts from several church traditions.

• 'Streaming services is NOT the same as Online Church' -  click here.
• 'Bible teaching can happen at the table not just the pulpit' - click here.
• 'In-Person Attendance v. Online Attendance' - click here.

28.9.20

Today's updates,

NEW: Mental Health, Children & YP - Take a look at these excellent new resources on 'Lockdown Reflections' from Hannah Dengate and the team at Phase Hitchin for Primary & Secondary Schools and Church Youth Groups... click here.

NEW: Digital Christmas webinar - This Christmas we might not be able to gather together in cosy 'Carols by Candlelight' services or host many of our other normal Christmas events as churches. But the greatest story ever told could reach more people than ever this year if we consider how we can share it in the digital as well as physical world! Hannah Fleming-Hill (the SWBA Digital Missioner) led a webinar to give you ideas and resources that can help you to proclaim and demonstrate the HOPE of the story of Jesus' birth to a world that has never needed to hear it more than this year... watch it on this page, or click here.

The next Digital Mission webinar will focus on what 'Digital Resources' (free and paid) are available to churches to produce digital content for social media/websites, graphics for physical flyers, and tools for social media etc. It will be on Wed 14/10, 11am and details will be posted here and on our Facebook page.

NEW: Downloadable Children's Talks - new from the wonderful Zoe James, Children's Worker at Saltash Baptist Church, available in our Online Service Resources, here.

NEW: Track & Trace QR codes for church buildings - important updates for churches who are using their buildings regarding the use of QR codes for the government's new Track & Trace app can be found in Section 4 of this updated guidance from Baptists Together.

NEW: Free 'Booking' software - for churches who are planning to begin meeting together again and need an online booking system for those who are planning to attend. Click here.

NEW: Should churches even try to 'go back to normal'? - All churches are facing a very challenging time; what should they attempt to re-start as the lockdown is lifted? Maybe more fundamental questions about how we are God's people on his mission need to be asked first. Here are some articles outlining similar thoughts from several church traditions.

• 'Streaming services is NOT the same as Online Church' -  click here.
• 'Bible teaching can happen at the table not just the pulpit' - click here.
• 'In-Person Attendance v. Online Attendance' - click here.

9.9.20

Today's updates,

NEW: Mental Health: Children & Young People webinar  - With Hannah Dengate (Wellbeing Lead with Christian schools charity, Phase) & the SWBA Team. Hannah shared ways that you can help to prepare your child over the summer months for their return to school in September. Watch the webinar here. Please take 2mins to complete this survey to help us better understand how we can serve you and your church as you serve your local schools.

NEW: Mental Health Resources for Parents, Youth & Children's Workers - Hannah has also produced these excellent free resources which can used by parents, teachers and Youth & Children's Workers to help support children as they return to school for the first time in six months. Download here.

NEW: Digital Christmas webinar (Thurs 17/9, 11am) -This Christmas we might not be able to gather together in cosy 'Carols by Candlelight' services or host many of our other normal Christmas events as churches. But the greatest story ever told could reach more people than ever this year if we consider how we can share it in the digital as well as physical world! Join Hannah Fleming-Hill (the SWBA Digital Missioner) for this Zoom webinar to give you ideas and resources that can help you to proclaim and demonstrate the HOPE of the story of Jesus' birth to a world that has never needed to hear it more than this year... details here, or email Carl.

NEW: Free 'Booking' software - for churches who are planning to begin meeting together again and need an online booking system for those who are planning to attend. Click here.

NEW: Should churches even try to 'go back to normal'? - All churches are facing a very challenging time; what should they attempt to re-start as the lockdown is lifted? Maybe more fundamental questions about how we are God's people on his mission need to be asked first. Here are some articles outlining similar thoughts from several church traditions.

• 'We should look at fundamentals rather than practicalities of reopening churches' -  click here.
• 'Bible teaching can happen at the table not just the pulpit' - click here.
• 'In-Person Attendance v. Online Attendance' - click here.

12.8.20

UPDATES on Use of Church Buildings, Church Worship & Risk Assessments, 'Explore Your Calling' webinar, 'Mental Health: Children & Young People' webinar, Encouraging 'Lockdown Stories' & 'Should churches even try to go back to normal?'...

NEW: UPDATES on Use of Church Buildings, Church Worship & Risk Assessments (28/7)  - The UK Government has published it's 'COVID-19: Guidance for the safe use of places of worship from 4 July' document - read it here. Baptists Together have updated a 'Guidance on re-opening Baptist church buildings' leaflet (downloadable risk assessment template here) and a separate updated 'Guidance on Church Worship' leaflet. There is also guidance on risk assessments for church staff returning to work in the 'Guide for churches as employers' leaflet.

It is likely that many churches will consider that the implications of this guidance will not enable the desires of those who wish to return to public worship to be adequately met (no communal singing, no before/after service fellowship, strict hygiene and cleaning regulations, keeping registers of service attendees...). For this reason many will continue to use other methods of being church for the time being.

Those producing online content are finding the processes required time-consuming and exhausting. We have produced a new resource for churches to access and download video materials for services. We hope this will 'lighten the load' a little over the summer months and be a blessing to service leaders and church members alike. Access our new 'Online Service Resources' here.

You may also like to take 8 mins to watch this reflection on where we find ourselves spiritually as a Church and society with reference to when, if and how we return to 'business as usual'. Take a look here.

NEW: Explore Your Calling webinar  - With Steve Finamore (Principal, Bristol Baptist College), Mark Ord (Director of Training, BMS World Mission), Paul Friend (Director, South West Youth Ministries) & the SWBA Team. An informal, no pressure, ‘just looking’ webinar for those beginning to think God may be calling them to something new… Watch the webinar here.

NEW: Mental Health: Children & Young People webinar  - With Hannah Dengate (Wellbeing Lead with Christian schools charity, Phase) & the SWBA Team. Hannah shared ways that you can help to prepare your child over the summer months for their return to school in September. Watch the webinar here.

NEW: Lockdown Stories - Ben Tucker, Minister of Seaton Baptist Church, tells us how the vision of the church, released in part by a Home Mission grant at the start of 2020, has led to the explosion of a brand new missional adventure over the weeks of lockdown... take a look and download to share with your church here.

NEW: The Anti-Worry Habit videos - One of our newest Ministers-in-Training in the South West, Ali Tinson from Creech St Michael Baptist Church, has produced these two excellent videos all about 'Worry' - please take a look and 'Share' with others who might be interested,

'Turn, Learn and Pray: The Anti-Worry Habit – Talk 1': Join Ali Tinson as she shares practical, liveable, God-centred tips on how to live in a worrying time without being overwhelmed by worry.

NEW: Should churches even try to 'go back to normal'? - All churches are facing a very challenging time; what should they attempt to re-start as the lockdown is lifted? Maybe more fundamental questions about how we are God's people on his mission need to be asked first. Here are some articles outlining similar thoughts from several church traditions.

• 'We should look at fundamentals rather than practicalities of reopening churches' -  click here.
• 'Bible teaching can happen at the table not just the pulpit' - click here.
• 'In-Person Attendance v. Online Attendance' (thoughts from churches who are beginning to gather again in countries where that is permitted) - click here.

2.6.20

Please do take a look at the latest videos on this page; 'SWBA Diaries' and a presentation of the 'Gospel of Hope' filmed by Ade Gascoyne, Pastor of Totnes United Free Church - also watch here & share with others...

Today - Mission in Action in Seaton, Community Prayer Project in West Somerset, Black Lives Matter, new Pastoral Visiting Advice & legal advice for churches in lockdown...

Today's updates,

NEW: Mission in Action - Ben Tucker, Minister of Seaton Baptist Church, tells us how the vision of the church, released in part by a Home Mission grant at the start of 2020, has led to the explosion of a brand new missional adventure over the weeks of lockdown... take a look here.

NEW: Community Prayers Project - Watchet Baptist Church asked people from their local communities what they were thankful for and what they would ask God for at this time during the Covid-19 outbreak. Take a look here at some of the responses they received... just wonderful! How are you helping your community to engage with God during lockdown? We'd love to share your stories too... (contact Carl here).

NEW: Pastoral Visiting - new guidance for Ministers (as of 1st June). Take a look here.

NEW: Black Lives Matter - Yinka Oyekan (President, Baptists Together) writes about the 'Five things that are choking the life out of black people & people of colour' - take a read here.

NEW: Legal Advice for Churches in Lockdown - Churches are facing a very challenging time because of the lockdown imposed by the Government due to the coronavirus pandemic. This guidance from our legal Team aims to gather in one place the various legal and regulatory issues that have arisen because of the lockdown. Click here.

- Planning for church-life as the lockdown relaxes - some helpful thoughts for diaconates/leadership teams to begin to consider and plan for what church may 'look like' after lockdown, from our friends at NWBA - take a read here.

19.5.20

Please do take a look at the latest videos on this page; 'SWBA Diaries' and a presentation of the 'Gospel of Hope' filmed by Ade Gascoyne, Pastor of Totnes United Free Church - also watch here & share with others...

Today - Mental Health Awareness Week, a new European online Mission Conference, South West PRAYS, BMS Solidarity Sunday and help for Church Treasurers...

Today's updates,

NEW: Mental Health Awareness Week, 18-24/5 - for more details and resources, please take a look here. Please let us know what your church is doing to support the mental health of those in your communities... we'd love to share your stories with others!

NEW: European Mission Conference Online, 19/5, 2/6 & 16/6 - 'Beyond Church, Doing Life, Being Christ' - hosted by the European Baptist Federation, join others from across Europe in exploring what God's mission might look and sound like now and as we come out of lockdown... more details inc. how to register here.

NEW: Managing Church Finances during Coronavirus Webinar, Fri 22/5 at 1.30pm - We are aware that these times present many challenges for church treasurers, and with this in mind the Finance Team at Baptists Together have scheduled this webinar to talk about some of the practical actions that treasurers can take to support their churches in the immediate crisis and in planning for the future.  You can join the webinar here and there will be an opportunity for Q&A to address the issues that are on your mind.

NEW: BMS Solidarity Sunday, Sun 31/5 - Take a look here to get a flavour of what this is all about. BMS have created a range of resources to suit every church – whether they use them all to build an inspiring and encouraging online service complete with a ready-to-play Bible reflection, or choose a short video to slot into the online service they already have planned. All the videos, talks and prayer resources will be regularly updated here

NEW: South West PRAYS, Sun 31/5, 8pm - the first 'South West PRAYS' event saw approx 2000 people from across our patch praying together led by over 30 denominational representatives. It felt like a significant moment for the unity of God's people in this part of the world! We'll be praying again on Pentecost Sunday at 8pm. For more details and to join us on the night, please take a look here.

- Planning for church-life as the lockdown relaxes - some helpful thoughts for diaconates/leadership teams to begin to consider and plan for what church may 'look like' after lockdown, from our friends at NWBA - take a read here.

- LATEST: On the Use of Church Buildings - in light of the U.K. government's announcements regarding the 'roadmap' to relaxing the lockdown in the months ahead, some guidance from Baptists Together. Take a look here. Also a helpful message from Lynn Green (Baptists Together, General Secretary) outlining how our voice is heard by the Government in it's consultation and planning here.

13.5.20

Please do take a look at the latest videos on this page; 'SWBA Diaries' and a presentation of the 'Gospel of Hope' filmed by Ade Gascoyne, Pastor of Totnes United Free Church - also watch here & share with others...

Today - Challenging Domestic Violence, praying for our children during this pandemic, planning for church-life as the lockdown relaxes, 'Gospel of Hope' video, important update for churches re: U.K. government's 'roadmap' to relaxing lockdown, and a new European online Mission Conference...

Today's updates,

NEW: 'Draw Back Your Curtains' for Children, Fri 15th May - The light behind a curtain is waiting to come in, as we draw back our curtains, or pull up a blind on 15/5, let’s pray that Jesus is the light amongst our children during the coronavirus, details here.

NEW: Challenging Domestic Abuse - During lockdown there has been a significant increase in domestic violence reporting across the world. In her upcoming book, Helen Paynter (lecturer at Bristol Baptist College) challenges the use of the Bible in validating domestic abuse. Learn more and download a free extract here.

NEW: European Mission Conference Online, 19/5, 2/6 & 16/6 - 'Beyond Church, Doing Life, Being Christ' - hosted by the European Baptist Federation, join others from across Europe in exploring what God's mission might look and sound like now and as we come out of lockdown... more details inc. how to register here.

NEW: UPDATE: On the Use of Church Buildings - in light of the U.K. government's announcements regarding the 'roadmap' to relaxing the lockdown in the months ahead, some guidance from Baptists Together. Take a look here. Also a helpful message from Lynn Green (Baptists Together, General Secretary) outlining how our voice is heard by the Government in it's consultation and planning here.

NEW: Planning for church-life as the lockdown relaxes - some helpful thoughts for diaconates/leadership teams to begin to consider and plan for what church may 'look like' after lockdown, from our friends at NWBA - take a read here.

- NOW OUT: new edition Baptists Together Magazine - this edition is themed around Young Adults, sometimes referred to as the 'missing generation' from our churches. With contributions from Carl Smethurst and Hope BC, Plymouth, please take a read here.

7.5.20

Please do take a look at the latest videos on this page; 'SWBA Diaries' and the recording of our webinar on 'Supporting Mental Health - now & in the future' with Ruth Rice of Renew Wellbeing (watch here).

Today - Planning for church-life as the lockdown relaxes, advice for Ministers about funerals, Covid-19 testing for church workers, praying for our children during this pandemic, and the induction of the new President of Baptists Together this Sunday...

Today's updates,

NEW: Baptists Together National Prayers, Sun 10/5 @8pm and Induction of Yinka Oyekan, the new President of Baptists Together @8.25pm - click here to watch both.

NEW: 'Draw Back Your Curtains' for Children, Fri 15th May - The light behind a curtain is waiting to come in, as we draw back our curtains, or pull up a blind on 15/5, let’s pray that Jesus is the light amongst our children during the coronavirus, details here.

NEW: UPDATE: Guidance for Ministers about Funerals - specifically regarding the use of Baptist buildings - read the advice here.

NEW: Covid-19 Testing for Ministers & other Church Workers - as identified keyworkers, Ministers may now apply for Covid-19 testing kits under the government's testing scheme. Details here.

NEW: Legal Advice for churches re: Covid-19 - inc. Church Meetings & AGMs, livestreaming licences, building lettings issues etc.  Download advice leaflet here.

NEW: Planning for church-life as the lockdown relaxes - some helpful thoughts for diaconates/leadership teams to begin to consider and plan for what church may 'look like' after lockdown, from our friends at NWBA - take a read here.

- Spiritual First Aid Summit with speakers inc. N.T. Wright, Michael Frost, Danielle Strickland & Pete Scazzero. Access the teaching anytime here (using the password : 'Bless1')

- JUST OUT: new edition Baptists Together Magazine - this edition is themed around Young Adults, sometimes referred to as the 'missing generation' from our churches. With contributions from Carl Smethurst and Hope BC, Plymouth, please take a read here.

2.5.20

Please do take a look at the latest videos on this page; 'SWBA Diaries' and the Baptist Together national Prayer Gathering from 26/4, co-hosted by Carl Smethurst (SWBA, Regional Minister -Mission) - watch here.

Today - New SWBA Diaries from Carl reflecting on Romans 5 - 'Persevering in Tough Times', SWBA Webinar on 'Mental Health', new online evangelism tool, Philippians for Children, Spiritual First Aid Summit & a helpful blog for those who feel like they've run in to a wall during 'lockdown'...

Today's updates,

NEW: SWBA Webinar: Supporting Mental Health, now & in the future -  4/5, 11am - we were delighted that Ruth Rice, founder of Renew Wellbeing, led this webinar and Q&A session for the SWBA! Please take a look at the recording of the webinar on this page or click here. The PowerPoint presentation from the session is available here.

NEW: Online Evangelism Tool from Silverton Evangelical Church - 'How to Explore Christianity for Yourself'. Take a look here.

NEW: Blog: The Wall - Have you had enough of 'lockdown' now? Does it feel like you've run in to a bit of a 'wall'? Richard Matcham (Minister of Tauton BC) reflects on his experiences as an overseas missionary to help us understand why we might be feeling culture-shocked in the 'foreign land' we now find ourselves. Take a read here.

NEW: Philippians for Children - an excellent brand new resource produced by Lynda Sanders, Children's Pastor at Truro BC, available here.

NEW: Spiritual First Aid Summit with speakers inc. N.T. Wright, Michael Frost, Danielle Strickland & Pete Scazzero. Access the teaching anytime here (using the password : 'Bless1')

- JUST OUT: new edition Baptists Together Magazine - this edition is themed around Young Adults, sometimes referred to as the 'missing generation' from our churches. With contributions from Carl Smethurst and Hope BC, Plymouth, please take a read here.

- SWBA Webinar : Where Do We Grow From Here? - Ken Benjamin (President, Baptists Together) led a 45min Zoom webinar engaging with how we grow as individual disciples of Jesus and as his Church on his Mission, both in these unusual times and once the lockdown is relaxed, especially for those in the SWBA. View and/or download the webinar here.

25.4.20

Please do take a look at the latest videos on this page; 'SWBA Diaries' and the Baptist Together national Prayer Gathering from 26/4, co-hosted by Carl Smethurst (SWBA, Regional Minister -Mission).

Today - Sunday's National Prayer Gathering co-hosted by Carl, x2 SWBA Webinars on 'Mental Health' and 'Where Do We Grow From Here?', new Baptists Together mag about 'Young Adults & the Church' & the role of lament during the present pandemic...

Today's updates,

NEW: National Prayer Gathering- Every Wednesday and Sunday at 7pm, Baptists Together hold an online National Prayer Meeting. On Sunday (26/4), it was co-hosted by Carl Smethurst (SWBA, Regional Minister - Mission). To watch back the Prayer Gathering from Sunday, please click here.

NEW: SWBA Webinar : Where Do We Grow From Here? 27/4, 11am - Ken Benjamin (President, Baptists Together)  led a 45min Zoom webinar engaging with how we grow as individual disciples of Jesus and as his Church on his Mission, both in these unusual times and once the lockdown is relaxed, especially for those in the SWBA. View and/or download the webinar here.

NEW: JUST OUT: new edition Baptists Together Magazine - this edition is themed around Young Adults, sometimes referred to as the 'missing generation' from our churches. With contributions from Carl Smethurst and Hope BC, Plymouth, please take a read here.

NEW: SWBA Webinar: Supporting Mental Health, now & in the future -  4/5, 11am - we're delighted that Ruth Rice, founder of Renew Wellbeing, will be leading this webinar and Q&A session for the SWBA! All SWBA church leaders will receive details of the ZOOM Meeting URL to pass on, or alternatively email Carl (stating which church you're a part of) here.

NEW: Blog: The Cross & Lament - In this time of loss, disorientation and pain, a true spirit of lament is demanded - Wale Hudson-Roberts (Justice Enabler of the Baptist Union of Great Britain) reflects theologically on the role of the Church during the Covid-19 pandemic. Take a read here.

- Documents for Ministers - what documentation do Ministers need to carry in case they are stopped by police whilst undertaking ministry duties during the lockdown ? Here's some advice...

- UPDATE on Furlough payments - Three important updates about the Job Retention Scheme, including the opening of the HMRC portal for making grant claims. More details here

21.4.20

Please do take a look at the latest 'SWBA Diaries' and check out our brand new mission training programme called 'INVEST'... videos on this page.

Today - Important updates on Furlough payments, info on 'Where Do We Grow From Here' webinar, supporting mental health in lockdown, and spiritual exercises to help handle heightened anxiety and stress during this Coronavirus pandemic...

Today's updates,

NEW: UPDATE on Furlough payments - Three important updates about the Job Retention Scheme, including the opening of the HMRC portal for making grant claims. More details here

NEW: Webinar : Where Do We Grow From Here? 27/4, 11am - Ken Benjamin (President, Baptists Together) will lead this 45min Zoom webinar engaging with how we grow as individual disciples of Jesus and as his Church on his Mission, both in these unusual times and once the lockdown is relaxed, especially for those in the SWBA. More details here or email Carl.

NEW: Documents for Ministers - what documentation do Ministers need to carry in case they are stopped by police whilst undertaking ministry duties during the lockdown ? Here's some advice...

NEW: Renew Wellbeing - helping churches reach out to the most anxious and isolated in their communities. Watch daily online vlogs with Ruth Rice, founder of Renew Wellbeing, and find lots of helpful information here. If you're from a SWBA church, you can contact Ruth directly for more advice by email here. Watch out for details of her SWBA webinar on Mon 4/5, 11-12noon...

NEW: Finding the inner cathedral of peace - Baptist minister Shaun Lambert offers some simple but profound spiritual exercises to help handle heightened anxiety and stress during this Coronavirus pandemic - click here.

NEW: National Prayer Meeting - Every Wednesday and Sunday at 7pm, Baptists Together hold an online National Prayer Meeting. This Sunday (26/4), it will be led by Carl Smethurst (SWBA, Regional Minister - Mission). The weblink you'll need to join in can be found here.

- Online Youth Group Ideas - compiled from suggestions made by youth workers from across the SWBA - take a look here!

- Helpful Insurance Advice - on church employees working from home, churches that engage in emergency community support programmes, church premises that are temporarily closed & much more from the Baptist Insurance Company here.

15.4.20

Please do take a look at the latest 'SWBA Diaries' and 'Prayer Vigil' videos on this page...

Today - Praying for children, caring for those with mental health challenges, what the church has to offer the world at this time & the power of a humble phone call...

Today's updates,

NEW: 'Draw Back Your Curtains' United Prayer for Children - On Wednesday 15th April when you ‘draw back your curtains’ let’s stand united in prayer for the children. More details here

NEW: Spring Harvest - Home, 13-17 April. This is a completely free online conference programme with content suitable for everyone in the family scheduled for the week after Easter and built around the 2020 theme of “Unleashed – The Acts Church Today". Details here.

NEW: Renew Wellbeing - helping churches reach out to the most anxious and isolated in their communities. Watch daily online vlogs with Ruth Rice, founder of Renew Wellbeing, and find lots of helpful information here. If you're from a SWBA church, you can contact Ruth directly for more advice by email here.

NEW: The Power of a Humble Phone Call - read this great blog from Mental Health Chaplain, Vicky Martin on the importance of staying in contact with simple phone calls to those who are isolated. Take a read here.

NEW: Covid 19: Lazarus or Jesus? Baptist theologian, Sally Nelson highlights the unique, theologically profound contribution the church offers at this time - click here.

NEW: Helpful Insurance Advice - on church employees working from home, churches that engage in emergency community support programmes, church premises that are temporarily closed & much more from the Baptist Insurance Company here.

- Online Youth Group Ideas - compiled from suggestions made by youth workers from across the SWBA - take a look here!

- Empty Buildings Checklist - a helpful checklist for those responsible for church buildings, here.

- Coronavirus: A guide for churches as employers - UPDATE - This guide for churches looks at the new provisions in place to offer employers financial support in relation to employment costs during the coronavirus pandemic, now including provision for office holders (i.e. Baptist Ministers) More here.

9.4.20

Loads of free Easter resources, a brand new ideas page for online youth groups, online Communion Services, and advice for those responsible for church buildings...

Today's updates,

NEW: South West Prays - Christians across the South West will be gathering together online at 8pm on Easter Sunday to pray for our region, our nation and our world. Please join us! Click here for more details and click here on Sunday at 8pm to join us...

NEW: Easter Sunday Sunrise video - beautiful sunrise over the Somerset coastline accompanied by words from Scripture for Easter morning, produced by Watchet BC, available here. Other video reflections for holy week available on their YouTube channel here.

NEW: Online Communion Services - a traditional service here and family prayers & communion around the dining table here.

NEW: Free Easter Resources - an online Easter resources page has been launched by Baptists Together and has been added to over this last week. Take a look here. Children's Easter Resources - written by Lynda Sanders, Children's Pastor from Truro Baptist Church... these are excellent! Click here to see them.

NEW: Online Youth Group Ideas - compiled from suggestions made by youth workers from across the SWBA - take a look here!

NEW: Empty Buildings Checklist - a helpful checklist for those responsible for church buildings, here.

- Sing Resurrection - At 10am on Easter Sunday 12 April 2020 Churches Together in Britain & Ireland are calling on all who want to celebrate the resurrection to go outside and sing - take a look.

- 'Draw Back Your Curtains' United Prayer for Children - On Wednesday 15th April when you ‘draw back your curtains’ let’s stand united in prayer for the children. More details here.

- Coronavirus: A guide for churches as employers - UPDATE - This guide for churches looks at the new provisions in place to offer employers financial support in relation to employment costs during the coronavirus pandemic, now including provision for office holders (i.e. Baptist Ministers) More here.

- Spring Harvest - Home, 13-17 April. This is a completely free online conference programme with content suitable for everyone in the family scheduled for the week after Easter and built around the 2020 theme of “Unleashed – The Acts Church Today". Details here.

7.4.20

Important update about furloughing Ministers, praying for children, Sing Resurection and safeguarding for community volunteers...

Today's updates,

NEW: Coronavirus: A guide for churches as employers - UPDATE - This guide for churches looks at the new provisions in place to offer employers financial support in relation to employment costs during the coronavirus pandemic, now including provision for office holders (i.e. Baptist Ministers) More here.

NEW: 'Draw Back Your Curtains' United Prayer for Children - On Wednesday 15th April when you ‘draw back your curtains’ let’s stand united in prayer for the children. More details here.

NEW: Sing Resurrection - At 10am on Easter Sunday 12 April 2020 Churches Together in Britain & Ireland are calling on all who want to celebrate the resurrection to go outside and sing - take a look.

NEW: Safeguarding - Two new guidance notes for churches offering volunteer support services to their local communities. Read more here.

- Coronavirus Financial Support Scheme - Information about this new Baptists Together scheme for churches & Ministers - click here.

- Children's Easter Resources - written by Lynda Sanders, Children's Pastor from Truro Baptist Church... these are excellent! Click here to see them.

- Free Easter Resources - an online Easter resources page has been launched by Baptists Together and will be added to over the next week. Take a look here.

- Spring Harvest - Home, 13-17 April. This is a completely free online conference programme with content suitable for everyone in the family scheduled for the week after Easter and built around the 2020 theme of “Unleashed – The Acts Church Today". Details here.

- Free 'The Work of the People' video series and films - inspirational films for these times from some theological thinkers & permission to stream them in livestreams - details here.

3.4.20

Easter resources for all the family, ideas for older people, how to care for your Minister in the current crisis and a new Table Communion video...

Today's updates,

NEW: Free Easter Resources - an online Easter resources page has been launched by Baptists Together and will be added to over the next week. Take a look here.

NEW: Children's Easter Resources - written by Lynda Sanders, Children's Pastor from Truro Baptist Church... these are excellent! Click here to see them.

NEW: Helpful webinars for churches - Current webinars available cover, 'Finance & Employment' and 'Managing Stress & Anxiety'. This page will be added to weekly.  Details here.

NEW: Caring for your Minister - Baptist Minister, Amie Aitken, offer some pointers when it comes to caring for Pastors in expecially challenging times. Read more here.

NEW: Ideas & Resources for Older People - from Anna Chaplaincy, please take a look at these ideas to help reduce isolation amongst those who can't leave their homes at present. Click here.

- Coronavirus Financial Support Scheme - Information about this new Baptists Together scheme for churches & Ministers - click here.

- Coronavirus: A guide for churches as employers - This guide for churches looks at the new provisions in place to offer employers financial support in relation to employment costs during the coronavirus pandemic. More here.

- Spring Harvest - Home, 13-17 April. This is a completely free online conference programme with content suitable for everyone in the family scheduled for the week after Easter and built around the 2020 theme of “Unleashed – The Acts Church Today". Details here.

- Free 'The Work of the People' video series and films - inspirational films for these times from some theological thinkers & permission to stream them in livestreams - details here.

31.3.20

Free video resources, financial and employment advice for churches + Q&A, and Spring Harvest online conference...

Today's updates,

NEW:  Bringing the Easter Message of Hope - Zoom webinar this Thursday 2/4/20 at 2pm with Ken Benjamin (Baptists Together President) to think about and plan together Easter online messages. Message Ken for the Zoom link via this webpage.

NEW: Finance and Employment Advice + Q&A Webinar - 31/3/20, 1pm This will cover the employer's guide for churches and the package of financial support for churches that were launched last Friday. Join the webinar here.

NEW: Financial guidance for churches from Stewardship here. Also see details of the Baptists Together Coronavirus Support Scheme here.

NEW: DBS ID Checks - for new alternatives to face-to-face checking, see here.

NEW: Free 'The Work of the People' video series and films - inspirational films for these times from some theological thinkers & permission to stream them in livestreams - details here.

NEW: Spring Harvest - Home, 13-17 April. This is a completely free online conference programme with content suitable for everyone in the family scheduled for the week after Easter and built around the 2020 theme of “Unleashed – The Acts Church Today". Details here.

- Managing Stress & Anxiety Webinar, Wed 1/4/20, 1pm - Baptist Minister Shaun Lambert will be leading this webinar and has recorded this video to introduce what he will be covering.

- Coronavirus Financial Support Scheme - Information about this new Baptists Together scheme for churches & Ministers - click here.

- Coronavirus: A guide for churches as employers - This guide for churches looks at the new provisions in place to offer employers financial support in relation to employment costs during the coronavirus pandemic. More here.

28.3.20

All of our mental health is affected by being in 'lock-down' to one degree or another. Many in our communities are experiencing stress and anxiety, including those in our churches. There are some great resources highlighted below to help address this... There's also some really important guidance about financial support, help for employers and advice on looking after temporarily closed church buildings...

Today's updates,

NEW: SWBA Diaries - Nigel Manges (SWBA Regional Minister, Ministry) introduces the very first episode of our new SWBA Diaries series... take a look at the video on this page or click here.

NEW: Coronavirus Financial Support Scheme - Information about this new Baptists Together scheme for churches & Ministers - click here.

NEW: Coronavirus: A guide for churches as employers - This guide for churches looks at the new provisions in place to offer employers financial support in relation to employment costs during the coronavirus pandemic. More here.

NEW: Guidance on looking after temporarily closed or unoccupied churches and church properties during COVID-19 from the Baptist Insurance Company - click here.

NEW: Managing Stress & Anxiety Webinar, Wed 1/4/20, 1pm - Baptist Minister Shaun Lambert will be leading this webinar and has recorded this video to introduce what he will be covering.

NEW: Mental Health: Renew Wellbeing Virtual Communities - While Renew spaces close temporarily due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the Renew team are posting short videos Mon-Fri and a weekly blog update. These can be viewed on their website homepage here. They have also launched Renew Communities to help us connect virtually. There is a video available here with training manuals and prayer information also on the Renew homepage.

NEW: Daily Prayer Office videos, produced by Mike Sherburn, Minister of Watchet Baptist Church - take a look here.

26.3.20

We're increasingly aware that significant numbers of those in our churches and wider communities are not able to access the internet for various reasons. Today, as well as passing on important and helpful legal advice, we're going to suggest a few ideas you might like to explore to continue to engage with those with no internet access...

Today's updates,

NEW: Advice for churches on emerging legal issues from Anthony Collins, the Baptists Together solicitors - click here.

NEW: U.K. Government guidance for charities during the present cornonavirus lock-down.

NEW: Engaging and building community with those who cannot access the internet,

• - Offline Services -  Print out a Service Outline including bible readings, song suggestions (choose songs that are well known and print out the words), prayer outline, sermon notes and questions for consideration each week. Post this either in person or using a postal service. Make sure someone phones those without internet access for 'after service fellowship'.
• - Old School 'Podcasts' - If you are able, record sermons, prayers etc. on to CD’s or DVD’s in a format that will easily work in a standard CD or DVD player and post them to those who would like them.
• - Prayer Chains... don't just use WhatsApp - Many churches have previously used ‘Prayer Chains’ where one church member phones another who then phones another, and so on, with prayer requests. This typically led to short but meaningful conversations with all those in the Prayer Chain in a relatively short period of time. This prayer activity might enhance relationships between those in your church and reduce the isolation of those who live alone. Please note that permission to share phone numbers must be gained from all those who will form a Prayer Chain.
• - Zoom Dial Ins - If you have a 'paid-for' Zoom account, you will be able to give those at home a U.K. phone number that they can use to dial in to any of your Zoom meetings. They'll also need to dial in the unique meeting number. This function is covered in this 'Zoom for Churches' tutorial.

* Livestreaming church services with multiple participants without using a church building,

• - James Brooks from Honiton Family Church has filmed this short video tutorial explaining how to livestream a multi-participant service from your own homes (i.e. not using a church building) – click here

22.3.20

Each Sunday we're going to 'Share' the service livestream from one of the churches in the SWBA family for those who would like to join us. Today we'll be sharing from Hope Baptist Church, Plymouth. Please 'Comment' so we know you're joining us if you're watching live!

Today's updates,

NEW: You can find today's Sunday Worship livestream from Hope Baptist, Plymouth by clicking here.  #SWBAfamily #blessed #hopenotfear

- We've filmed a simple online Communion Service that can be used at home. It will be available to access anytime here. We've added it to this page too... take a look!

- National 'Call to Prayer' - Sun 22/3, 7pm - join our national Prayer Gathering on Sunday evening - more info and the web-link to join in here.

- Awesome poem helping us reflect on the present situation we're all facing from the super-talented Mike Sherburn, Minister of Watchet Baptist Church, here.

21.3.20

There has been an explosion of creativity over the last week as churches have embraced new ways of sharing community and have begun producing some excellent resources. Check out some of the resources below produced by those in the SWBA family of churches,,,

Today's updates,

NEW: We've filmed a simple online Communion Service that can be used at home. It will be available to access anytime here. We've added it to this page too... take a look!

NEW: Beautiful Spoken Word video narrated by Karen Golder, Pioneer Minister from Breathe Communities, Penzance here.

NEW: Awesome poem helping us reflect on the present situation we're all facing from the super-talented Mike Sherburn, Minister of Watchet Baptist Church, here.

NEW: Tour of the Bible with Helen Paynter - Rev Dr Helen Paynter, Tutor at Bristol Baptist College is using her time at home to develop a daily vlog. She is taking a tour through the Bible and you are invited to join her. Details here.

NEW: Brilliant advice on social-distancing from someone who has almost 30 years experience... this is a great read - click here.

19.3.20

Today's updates,

NEW: Online Family Worship - Nick & Becky Drake have led Family Worship at Spring Harvest and alongside their family are live-streaming worship for families including action songs, all age bible teaching, and lots of fun! Join in live on Wednesdays and Saturdays 4pm (FBlive - find their page here) or watch afterwards on YouTube. Click here to take a look at their first session...

NEW: Parenting for Faith - resources and a free online course equipping parents to raise God-centred children & teens.

NEW: Filming Sermons for uploading to the internet - Christian film-maker, Will Reddaway (Torbay-based), is offering 1 hr of professional filming (enough for x2 20min sermons and 1-2 shorter videos to go out in the week) for just £65 which includes all editing ready for uploading. Contact Will by email here - will@wtrphotography.co.uk or phone, 07828490382.

NEW: Advice on Copyrights & Licences for Live-streaming church worship can be found in 'Keeping your church community connected'.

NEW: Financial Advice for churches during period of buildings closure from John Levick, the Baptist Together treasurer

NEW: SWBA ENews for March has been published today with stories to inspire & inform from across the South West - take a read here and sign up to receive ENews in the future here.

- National 'Call to Prayer' - Sun 22/3, 7pm - join our national Prayer Gathering on Sunday evening - details will be shared on our Facebook page... please 'Like' & follow us here.

- For a free online tutorial on how to use Zoom video conferencing to keep in contact with those in your church please click the following link on Friday 20th March – 10am, 2pm - https://www.zoom.us/j/7930148094 . More on Digital Tools for Churches available here (crowd-sourced ideas and info).

18.3.20

We have seen an unprecedented amount of activity amongst our SWBA church family in the last 48 hours as we find new ways to communicate with each other, care for each other and meet together virtually. We are not 'closed'... in fact we're finding some excellent new ways to be very much 'Open'!

Today's updates,

NEW: School Closures : implications for those receiving free school meals - see  Mission no.3 below.

NEW: National 'Call to Prayer' - Sun 22/3, 7pm

NEW: Keeping your church community connected - For a free online tutorial on how to use Zoom video conferencing to keep in contact with those in your church please click the following link on Wednesday 18th March – 10am, 2pm, 7.30pm, Thursday 19th March – 7.30pm or Friday 20th March – 10am, 2pm - https://www.zoom.us/j/7930148094 . More on Digital Tools for Churches available here (crowd-sourced ideas and info).

NEW: Notice about Online Sunday Worship for church members - an example from Totnes United Free. Thanks guys! PDF here & JPEG here.

NEW: Coronavirus Safeguarding Considerations

NEW: The Gift of Contemplation in the midst of Covid-19

NEW: Online 'Socially Distant' Worship Club - Rend Collective: Session 1 here, Session 2 - join LIVE on Fri 20/4, 9pm (via Facebook LIVE & Instagram) Also check out YouTube for loads of online worship, often with lyrics available so you can sing along...

16.3.20

Today the U.K. Prime Minister advised amongst other things that, “Everyone should avoid gatherings and crowded places, such as pubs, clubs, theatres, cinemas etc.” Although he did not mention church gatherings specifically, it would seem within the spirit of this advice to include them under this guidance and there has since been clarification in Parliament that religious groups should not gather together in person.

It is for Diaconates/Leadership Teams to consider the appropriate responses for their individual church. The above is offered to aid those discussions.