Pictured are Pastor Phil Roushey, Liz Jones from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Rachel Roushey and Larry Gauger, Zion Lutheran Church council president. Submitted photo

FREWSBURG — Zion Lutheran Church in Frewsburg received a General Grant Award from the Lynn Foundation at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation to buy new video equipment to improve its livestream of worship services.

The money allowed the congregation to purchase a PTZ camera, laptop, desk and the necessary cords for connecting the microphone and camera to the laptop.

“It has been wonderful having a permanent set up since receiving the grant,” said Rachel Roushey.

She has been running the livestream since COVID-19 forced churches to go online while large gatherings weren’t allowed.

“When we first started, we recorded the first service on a cell phone, and then I began using my own DSL Canon camera on a tripod; having this new technology is a game changer. The camera is permanently set up in the back of our sanctuary, so I don’t have to take the time to set up and tear down each week and our wifi works without interruption from the back of the church. It’s wonderful having a workstation where we can record the service. The camera can even be controlled with a remote,” Rousey said.

Having the new AV set up has allowed other members of the congregation to be trained to run the livestream as well.

“We have several members who watch the livestream every week, and people who love being able to watch the announcements, sermon or hear the choir or special music again.” Roushey said. “We are so thankful that the Community Foundation’s grant made this possible.”

Zion Lutheran Church’s livestream is posted on its YouTube channel every week, as well as at www.zionfrewsburg.com. Worship is every Sunday at 10 a.m. Sunday school begins again Sept. 18 at 9 a.m. and has classes for all ages.

To learn more about grant opportunities at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, visit crcfonline.org/grants or call 716-661-3390.