Exeter church to stream festive services live

The River Church in Exeter is streaming all of their festive services LIVE online.

This is the first time the church has ever done this and after record attendances this year at their regular weekly services (which they also stream LIVE each week) they have decided to bring the festivities directly into peoples homes on their smartphones, tablets or pc’s via their online streaming.

Those who tune in include those exploring what church is like, individuals who are housebound and ill, as well as people who are on holiday and away from the city.

As well as watching the service LIVE, visitors can participate in a chatroom led by dedicated Church Online Pastors who offer encouragement and prayer, as well as answering any questions that people may have.

In 2015 the church have found a big increase in the numbers who watch the weekly LIVE stream, and believe this Christmas will be an opportunity for those who don’t want to go out into the Winter chill, to still attend church and sing along to traditional Christmas carols.

Lead Pastor Mark Pugh says, ‘Our online stream is such an important part of our church as it allows people a stepping stone to explore faith – for some it is like peering through the window of the church and having the opportunity to ask questions. For others it provides a sense of community as they participate in the services from wherever they are. Many enjoy interactions with other viewers and we often have messages from people saying how much of a life line this has been for them’

One of the Church Online Pastors Jason Ham says, “We have people from all walks of life coming to church via our LIVE stream. This December we can’t wait to welcome more people tuning in and taking part in the festive fun, as we broadcast not only to Exeter but around the world”

The Christmas Special event is on Sunday December 13th at 6.30pm as well as their 11am Services throughout December and can be viewed by visiting www.riverchurch.tv