During lockdown two, students were no longer able to praise, pray and worship with one another, it was no wonder that the situation was taking a toll on faith and belief. Many students took to Zoom in order to worship together and support one another in faith.
Other students have formed prayer groups to enable them to continue sharing words of encouragement during these uncertain times.
On November 5, the government published its guidelines regarding churches and worship in buildings which stated:
‘To reduce social contact, the regulations require some businesses to close and impose restrictions on how some businesses provide goods and services.
These include places of worship, apart from for the purposes of independent prayer, for funerals or funeral commemorative events, to broadcast an act of worship, to provide essential voluntary services or urgent public support services, for registered childcare, and to host permitted gatherings.’
Ellie Hall, a student studying Primary Education stated: ‘My relationships with others have definitely been impacted the most. I see many of my friends at church and as our lives have been so busy lately, it has highlighted why catching up with my friends on Sundays is so important to me.’
In a time of such uncertainty, it is essential that we stick together. Joining online groups and talking to people with the same beliefs will keep us united throughout this difficult time.