Almost all of Gunnedah's churches are running face-to-face services again after months of lock-down.
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Many ministers turned to online platforms to continue services and Bible studies but as restrictions have eased over the past few weeks, churches have been returning to normal.
Churches must maintain the four square-metre rule, and people are required to use hand sanitiser on entry and sign-in as well.
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Gunnedah Anglican Church's David Piper said most parishioners had returned to services but those who are vulnerable continue to watch services online or on CD.
More than 100 parishioners have attended one of the three services at 8am, 10am and 5pm.
"Generally, people are keen to come back and overall, people have been very cooperative [during COVID-19]," Mr Piper said.
"Some people have said it's easier doing church on the lounge but they'd rather be with people."
One tricky rule is that parishioners are not allowed to sing for health reasons, which can be hard to get used to, Mr Piper said.
During the lock-down, the minister said he "spent more time on the phone", keeping in touch with parishioners, and the church set up a "buddy system" to "encourage people to call each other".
"That was really helpful," Mr Piper said.
One church-goer even jumped in his car and delivered pre-recorded sermons to those who didn't use the Internet.
Who's back, who's not
St Joseph's parish is running mass again Tuesday to Thursday from 9.15am, Friday at 11am and 5.30pm, Saturday from 4pm in Boggabri and 6pm in Gunnedah, and Sunday from 8.30am in Gunnedah and 11am in Tambar Springs/Mullaley. Ring the parish office to book.
Gunnedah Anglican Church is running services at 8am, 10am and 5pm, and youth group in the school term.
Gunnedah Presbyterian has resumed its 9.30am service but not its evening service. Curlewis Community Church and TurningPoint Gunnedah Christian Outreach Centre also hold services at 9.30am.
Gunnedah's Seventh Day Adventist Church is running again on Saturdays. All ages Bible study is at 9.30am and the main service is at 11am. The Chapel Collective will resume 10am services from July 19.
Gunnedah Baptist Church, Gunnedah Presbyterian Church and Gunnedah Salvation Army remain online only at the moment. The Salvos family store has reopened and is accepting donations.
