HELENSBURGH and Lomond churches have begun a 'phased return' towards communal worship this month.

In a message posted on Rhu and Shandon Community Council's website, Andrew Nisbet, the chair of the area's church Covid-19 task group, says that private prayer sessions, with music, will be the first stage of the re-opening process, before progressing to more communal services.

The phased return will be on a fortnightly basis from September 23 onwards for an initial phase of six weeks, with exact dates and times still to be confirmed.

The numbers able to attend gatherings will be limited, and those attending will have to observe strict Covid control procedures.

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Mr Nisbet added: “A significant amount of preparatory work still needs to be done before we can start to welcome you back, but we will keep you updated.”

Meanwhile, St Modan's, in Rosneath, re-opened on Sunday, September 6, with Craigrownie, in Cove, and Garelochhead Parish Church set to follow suit on September 13 and September 20, respectively.

Online services will continue for those who feel safer at home.

Sunday services at Luss Parish Church and Arrochar Parish Church also resumed at the weekend, as well as the weekly Sunday Eucharist at St Michael and All Angels in Helensburgh, while public worship is scheduled to resume this Sunday, September 13 at the United Reformed Church.

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