Throughout the years, the churches in Kaslo have served as a place of community and solace.

But during the COVID-19 pandemic, congregations have not been allowed to gather as usual, and both St. Andrew's United and St. Mark's Anglican have remained empty.

Except for a select few volunteers who took it upon themselves to ring the bells. Every evening at 7 p.m., when all is dark and quiet, the bells begin to toll.

Mandy Bath, at St. Mark's, and Shelley Stickel-Miles, at St. Andrew's, share what it's like being the only souls in the church and the comfort they hope to bring to those who can hear the bells:

St. Andrews United Church in Kaslo, moments before the bell is rung at 7 p.m. Photo by Keili Bartlett.

St. Marks Anglican Church in Kaslo. Photo courtesy of Mandy Bath.