CUMNOCK Congregational Church have cancelled all formal gatherings due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Church confirmed they are to stop public Sunday services with a ‘heavy heart’.

Instead the church have vowed to bring services to the homes of residents with their newly created YouTube page.

The first of these online services took place on Sunday, March 22 with 11am prayers and the morning sermon streamed to view on the newly created YouTube page which can be found by searching “Cumnock Congregational Church”.

A spokesperson for the church has urged the community to come together during difficult times, they said: “In this difficult time we as a community of Christians in Cumnock must work hard to lovingly care for each other.

“While we may not be able to see some face to face, we can always encourage one another in our following and serving of Jesus with a phone, or even a video call.

“This is a time to share the hope of Christ, both with other members and with many who yet do not know Jesus.

There may be other practical ways we can help each other and our neighbours in the community; shopping, taking dogs for walks, picking up prescriptions etc.

“To this end I’d encourage you to call the manse on 01290 426216, or alternatively email rossmcmahan3@gmail.com should a need develop. There have already been kind members of the congregation offering their time to those in need, please do call and I can pass on details, arrange assistance, or even just a loving phone call from a brother or sister in Christ.”