Churches across south-central Kentucky are responding to the coronavirus outbreak by following advice from medical professionals and state government to avoid large gatherings.
One of those making adjustments is Hillvue Heights Church in Bowling Green, which has thousands of congregants who attend multiple services througout the week.
But they won’t be gathering in-person for the next two Sundays.
The church will livestream worship services on March 15 and 22 through YouTube and the church’s Facebook page.
Hillvue Heights Pastor Steve Ayers said changes required by coronavirus don’t have to affect the sense of community.
“Our faith cannot be taken away. Our worship cannot be taken away and our ministry cannot be taken away by a virus," said Ayers. "And so my great encouragement is, call each other on the phone, text each other, pray with each other. We have great ways to communicate with each other through our technology.”
Ayers said it's a responsible action to do everything possible to minimze the impact of the virus, especially out of concern for medical workers and caregivers who may be overwhelmed by responding to the coronavirus.
“This is a moment in the United States of America, whether we like each other or not, we’re going to have to come together to slow the spread of this virus so that it can be manageable,” said Ayers.
Other Bowling Green churches offering online worship include Christ Episcopal Church and Living Hope Baptist Church.
In Somerset, First Baptist Church is among those that will live stream services on March 15.
