Cars lined up Sunday on the parking lot of the First Baptist Church in Chester, for the first "drive-in" service of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pastor Mike Fogerson and the FBC Praise Band hosted what could become a regular event (weather permitting) until the stay-at-home restrictions are lifted and people can resume coming to church. Another 10:30 a.m. service is planned for May 17; if it rains the service will be broadcast on Facebook.
Around 50 cars were strategically parked in three rows in accordance with social distancing guidelines, and most cars held two or more people.
Fogerson preached from a makeshift stage and parishioners could listen either from a PA system at the front of the stage or from their car radios at 92.1 FM. The FBC praise band led the congregation in singing, and those who were moved by particular parts of the service were encouraged to praise God by honking their horns.
The service was deemed a huge success and people were happy to be at a "live" service after almost eight weeks of long-distance services on Facebook.
