As part of finding new ways to gather due to government restrictions and the desire to reduce everyone’s risk of infection, we’re trialling using ‘Zoom’, a conference call platform that works on computers, tablets, smartphones and even ordinary landline phones! Those who want to use a landline or mobile phone can ‘dial in’ to the service and hear all that is being said, without being heard by those present. If you want to go ‘higher-tech’, you can use the Zoom app on a smartphone, tablet or computer connected to the internet, and see video as well as hear the service. You can even ‘put your hand up’ electronically and contribute to the service!
Joining the service via Zoom using a phone is simple. Dial the following number (03) 7018 2005 (local call cost). When the call connects you will be prompted to enter the meeting number, which is 930 421 677, and press the # key. Once you’ve entered that number you’ll either hear what’s happening at St Luke’s, or be asked to wait if it hasn’t started yet. It’s that simple! If you make a mistake in the middle of the number (like I did the first time), just wait and the system will prompt you again to enter the number, or if you end up in a different meeting, just hang up and try the number (930 421 677) again.
Joining with a smartphone, tablet or computer involves clicking this link: https://zoom.us/j/930421677 . If you haven’t installed the Zoom app, you’ll be prompted to install it (it doesn’t take long) and then to try following the link again. Once you have the app, it’s a simple matter of clicking the link and you’ll join the service! https://zoom.us/j/930421677 Your video will automatically be muted when you join, so I won’t be able to tell if you’re participating in your pyjamas unless you enable your camera. Participants with screens will be able to tell who else is online with them from a text label on a box. Typed comments are an option for participants with screens, so you can put in some feedback without having to speak, or even contact someone else who’s online with you.
I’ve set up Zoom to broadcast at our normal worship time for the next six weeks, and I’ve included our worship this Sunday as a trial run. If you have any questions, Zoom has instructions here. If you’re still stuck, feel free to contact me. Zoom is free to download and use, save for the local call cost for those who dial in on a landline or mobile phone.
Zoom isn’t the only way we’ll be combating the coronavirus gathering restrictions, but it’s a start. If it works well, we might just keep doing it even when we can all gather again!
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