CHURCHES across the area are preparing to celebrate Easter, despite their buildings being closed for the past three weeks.

Crosses and flowers are out on doors and in windows, and inside homes people from different congregations are preparing to meet over Facebook Live, YouTube, and Zoom for creative Easter gatherings.

Lieutenant Martin Davison of Barrow Salvation Army said: “Easter is far from cancelled! Churches are simply doing Easter differently. In some ways, we’re seeing a re-discovery of church as community, rather than a building.”

Rev Carl Harding, Vicar at St George’s and St Aidan’s, said: “We’re actually finding people are tuning into our worship and teaching online who aren’t usual church-goers. It seems that these unsettling times are prompting a spiritual hunger too.”

One church initiative beginning in Barrow has also gone viral nationally. Christians across the region are sharing their stories online with the hashtag #EasterChangedMyLife.

Jonny Harrison, Pastor at Spring Mount, said: “Easter couldn’t be more significant at a time like this - Jesus’ death and resurrection change everything - so we want to share our stories of hope.”

Christians from all denominations have also been working alongside others to give practical support, helping to set-up a ward-based emergency distribution support system for Barrow and Dalton, bringing essential items to those who need them. Sophie Carnaby, Family & Community Worker for Methodist and URC Churches, said: “People have really stepped up. It’s heartening to see people’s generosity and the way people are looking out for each other.”

Reflecting on what’s going on across Cumbria, the Bishop of Penrith, Emma Ineson, said: “I’ve been so impressed by the creativity and commitment of churches during these challenging times.

"The church is very much alive, serving God and the local community. Easter is a time when we remember and celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus. I pray we may each know the extraordinary hope that resur-rection brings and the deep peace of God’s reassuring and loving presence.”

If you want to find out more about what is happening locally, visit www.barrowmissioncommunity.com or www.fb.com/barrowmissioncommunity