THE gradual reopening of Methodist churches in Tynedale is continuing with services resuming in three more communities.

Next Sunday (July 4) will see congregations return to Methodist churches at Acomb and Corbridge for the first time this year, while weekly services will resume at Riding Mill following limited provision there since lockdown.

It follows the reopening of Methodist buildings at Hexham Trinity, Hexham West End, Haltwhistle, Haydon Bridge, Wark, Allendale, Prudhoe, Stocksfield, Wylam, and Bellingham, since April.

The Rev. Paul Dunstan, Tynedale Methodist Circuit’s Superintendent Minister, said: “It’s great to see more of our churches opening their doors once again.

“Our church communities responded remarkably well to the pandemic. They embraced technology to share worship and fellowship online. The successful use of Zoom, YouTube and other internet platforms will ensure that they continue to be used long into the future.

“But there is nothing like meeting face to face and we’re delighted that services will resume at more of our churches. In each case we have worked with each of our communities in order to best suit their needs.”

With social distancing and other Covid restrictions still in place, capacity will continue to be limited at each church in the Circuit.

Rev. Dunstan added: “We fully understand that some people are not yet able or ready to return to church. For those who prefer to worship at home, the Circuit will continue to offer an online Sunday service video which will be available on the Circuit website, social media platforms, and on our YouTube channel.

“We will continue this hybrid approach of both physical and online services moving forward as we continue to meet the needs of our communities during the remainder of the pandemic and beyond.”

Further information can be found at www.tynedalemethcircuit.org, via the Tynedale Methodist Circuit pages on Facebook and YouTube, or on Twitter @Tynedale_MC.