New Birth Missionary Baptist Church is doing a slow walk toward eventually holding in-person worship services.
The Stonecrest megachurch will conduct a drive-in style Sunday service, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Sunday in the parking lot on Woodrow Road at Bishop Eddie L. Long Parkway.
This Sunday is recognized as Pentecost Sunday, which marks the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles.
Congregants can watch the live service from inside their vehicles. There will be projection screens and speakers throughout the parking lot. New Birth will also broadcast the service live on social media, the website and on Praise 102.5.
Related: Some churches prepare for in-person services. Others question safety
"Despite President Trump and Governor Kemp declaring it is safe for people to return to houses of worship amid this global pandemic, we believe the data does not support the notion that we are out of the woods regarding COVID-19," the Rev. Jamal Harrison Bryant said in a press release.
He said congregants are expected to stay inside their vehicles during the service. Bryant is asking people to wear all-white.
More: Columbus church finds unique way to fill pews
There will be sanitizing stations and portable toilets available.
New Birth has been livestreaming its services. It has also operated a food pantry and held COVID-19 screenings.
Due to parking limitations and on-site car spacing regulations, individuals interested in participating in the drive-in service are encouraged to register online at the church's website.
Some churches are holding in-person worship services and offering them online as well for people who are uncomfortable going out, older or have conditions that put them at risk.
Other churches think it’s too soon and are staying online only.
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