Racist music hack puts paid to online church service

The parish’s two Church of England churches – St Marie du Castel and St Matthew’s – have been combining for joint Sunday Zoom service each week since Easter.

The rector, the Rev. Scott Lamb, said it had been a largely positive experience and they had seen a number of new people joining the congregation.

On Sunday they held a special Rogationtide service with Delisles Methodist Church. Details were published on the church’s Facebook page and website.

‘We allowed some people into the service with names we did not know, because we have had people visiting us,’ Mr Lamb said.

‘And they were disruptive. It was just a bit of mischief.’

Mr Lamb said he did not know where the troublemakers were, although he noted that the social media groups were usually frequented by people in Guernsey.

Despite this incident, Mr Lamb said the services had been going well.

‘It’s actually been a good experience and there has been a lot to take out of it,’ he said.

‘Zoom has been a good way for new people to get a gentle taste of church and actually it’s been lovely to see each others' faces.’

Zoom has faced criticism in recent months about its security and some school sessions overseas have been subjected to inappropriate content. But church services are slightly different, as they aim to be open to everyone. That makes putting restrictions on the Zoom calls difficult.

‘It’s about finding a balance between security and welcome,’ said Mr Lamb.

In terms of the church buildings, St Matthew’s is now open during the day, however St Marie du Castel at the top of Rectory Hill is staying closed for the present. It can be opened by asking the church wardens.

An announcement about whether church services will restart in phase four of the easing of lockdown restrictions is expected shortly.