What is the problem?

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, our parish community has been unable to gather together to celebrate the Mass. When lockdown began, we started to look into live-streaming church services on the internet. Unfortunately, it was discovered that the internet cabling running to the house was not good enough to support it. It was made clear by all internet providers that, due to our location, they have no intention of upgrading the connection in the future. Since then, the parish priest has been using the internet connection and camera on his mobile phone in order to make Mass available online.

During church services, we are currently having to attach the mobile phone to a ladder using a tripod while balancing a large wall speaker underneath. To stop the echo, we also have to cover the ladder with blankets! This is clearly not a sustainable solution to the problem.

What is the plan?

Having considered the options available, we believe it is necessary to install a more permanent system for live-streaming in the church. In order to do so, we must first switch from a cabled internet connection to mobile broadband. A high speed connection is vital when uploading live video. Consequently, we are seeking to invest in the latest 5G mobile broadband technology which will provide the fastest possible internet connection available.

Secondly, we will need to purchase a camera for the church. This will eliminate the need to use the parish priest's mobile phone for live-streaming services and provide a better quality image.

Finally, a new laptop is needed to connect the camera and sound systems to. It will serve as a permanent computer to live-stream all of our services through.

What will the work involve?

The work involves installing a small mobile data antenna in a hidden location on the roof to receive the 5G signal. This will be connected to the existing internet framework within Giffard House via a new router. The internet connection will then be extended into the church to allow us to use it for live-streaming. This new connection in the church will also make the internet available for groups who use both the church and the guild room in the future.

A laptop will be installed and wired to both the existing sound system and the new camera that will be fixed to the wall in the church. This will improve the sound quality as the microphones will be directly inputting sound into the computer.

How can I help?

We are extremely grateful for any help you can give. You can donate money on this "Just Giving" page or share this campaign on social media. Spread the word and tell people you know about what we have planned! All funds raised will be donated to the parish account at the end of the campaign.