CHURCHES in North Ayrshire are gearing up to welcome their congregations back this Easter Sunday.

And one church has been active throughout, with Fullarton minister the Rev Neil Urquhart delivering 60 second sermons on Instagram and social media throughout the lockdown.

Now he is preparing to return to the pulpit at the church which celebrates five years in its new purpose-built place of worship this month.

And all being well, the busy ConneXions centre which runs a café and community groups is hoping to open up as soon as the restrictions are lifted.

But anyone who wants to go must pre-book their pew.

Neil said: “Yes, we are back in Fullarton ConneXions for a 10.30 Easter Sunday service, for which people have to pre-book due to limited numbers and we are looking forward to holding socially distanced face-to-face meetings again.

“Our 10.30am pre-recorded and 6.30pm Zoom Sunday services will continue to be streamed on our Fullarton ConneXions Facebook Page.

“We also hope to open up ConneXions for the café and general use from the end of April, if restrictions are lifted as hoped.”

During the lockdown Rev Neil has been delivering 60 second sermons on his Instagram page.

And what’s more, he takes them during his cycles around Ayrshire giving those watching a chance to enjoy some stunning views as the minister delivers his daily worship. The short videos have become popular with his followers on Instagram.

Abbey Church in Kilwinning has also been keeping its congregation busy by live streaming services with plans to screen Easter Sunday Service.

And there is good news as the church had been using a one-camera system but has plans to install a new state-of-the-art AV system.