During the very early stages of lockdown in the Isle of Man Reverend Andy Fishburne, a local Methodist Church Minister, quickly jumped into action to make sure those who were still keen to worship were able to despite the lack of being able to gather in the usual way. This was particularly important to many at a time they would naturally have gravitated to church if they could. In no time at all a Facebook group called ‘Sthie’, which is Manx for ‘At home’, was established and people gathered together online weekly.
Andy went ‘live’ for a weekly sermon, performed hymns and encouraged connections and discussions via comments so church goers could continue building new friendships and talk about any worries, concerns or positive happenings in day-to-day life to receive the same fellowship they would usually get from going into church.
Sthie was one of 4 groups endorsed by the Methodist Church nationally, alongside Methodist Central Hall and Wesley’s Chapel in London. The idea was a complete success, with members of the group attending the service branching far further than the Isle of Man. Some services saw attendees from the UK, America and even Africa joining in and receiving a warm welcome. Clearly Andy made a huge impact on the local community and beyond – now that’s pretty extraordinary!
A huge well done and big thank you to Andy for his incredible efforts and success in something so thoughtful and inspiring We have linked an example of one of Andy’s Sthie videos for you all to check out!
