Minister’s criticism of church closures is sweeping — shutting them was in fact God-given common sense, to stop spread of Covid-19

(Rev Kirkland’s letter can be read here: ‘At last, someone calls for our churches to be opened again’).

I suspect Rev Kirkland would not consider me a saved evangelical anyway, even though I am firmly so, given his crude juxtaposition of ‘smock and gown ecclesiastical elites’ versus ‘evangelical churches and ministers’.

It seems there is no scope for overlap in his framework.

That said I really cannot discern where Rev Kirkland places himself in this labelling process.

Despite his sweeping analysis, at the heart of any decision to close church buildings was a genuine desire to ensure that no congregational gathering could become a medium of transmission for Covid-19.

This is not rocket science. It is God-given common sense.

Regrettable indeed if Rev Kirkland feels that such a measure was somehow ungodly. In my view it represents a wholly necessary and essential pastoral approach.

Comparing us with the US is not overly helpful, given the immensity of their own situation.

Rev Kirkland’s closing gambit is conjecture of the finest quality (no lobbying because there is no fear of God). I dare say God has plenty to say on the whole matter, but I would safely contend that promoting foolhardiness is not amongst it.

Many churches, my own included, have resorted to online gospel witness during lockdown, with, it would seem, an engagement above and beyond that of any conventional attendance at church services.

Granted, coming together again in our sacred spaces will be a great and wonderful blessing, but if this period has taught us anything it is that the Lord Christ has and will continue to use trials and testing for His glory.

Not wholly spiritual, but nonetheless true ...you don’t realise what you take for granted until it’s not there.

I have learned much under God about new ways of compassion and practical care of the flock in these different times ... ways that speak of Jesus without resort to mere bellowing for 20 minutes from a pulpit. Mind you a full gospel sermon is always non-negotiable!

As to the work of solitary prayer not being an evangelical practice. Who decided that?

Some elaboration is needed...as is a modicum of grace on the whole.

My apologies if at any stage I have misunderstood any part of Rev Kirkland’s angst or postulation.

Rev Mark W J Loney, The Rectory, Church of Ireland, Dungiven