A NEW informal way of meeting brought about by the Covid pandemic has proved very popular for one Okehampton church.

Inspiration in Okehampton, part of the Church of the Nations family of churches, thas been doing things differently in an aim to be more relevant in a changing world.

On the first Sunday of the month they meet at Meldon Village Hall at 11am and hold their services in a similar way to pre-Covid. There is approximately 25 minutes of worship, communion, followed by a sermon.

On the third Sunday of the month the church hires Toast Coffee Shop in Market Street, Okehampton for an 11am start. Those attending can have tea, coffee, hot chocolate served by the Toast staff. Cakes are also available. This is all free to those attending.

On 2nd and 4th Sunday the church meets at homes for a more casual time together. If there is a fifth Sunday in the month the church organises a social event.

Rev Cllr Mike Davies, who has now led the church ministry for 22 years, said: ‘It has taken time to adjust. I’m used to having to prepare a sermon for a Sunday but the new format appears to be appealing to all.

‘We certainly get guests who are regularly coming to Toast for some Christian input just once a month. I think the very short talk and casual setting that we have available at Toast is a lot more appealing.’

The church is in the process of redeveloping the disused Gospel Hall in Crediton Road. Rev Davies confirmed that contractors have been appointed and that works have started. He said: ‘We are so looking forward to it being completed as we will then have a permanent venue having sold the Inspiration Centre several years ago. As it currently stands, once we can use the Gospel Hall building we will still continue with the casual coffee shop style meeting (service) as it is proving very popular.’