In response to the various Covid lockdowns, and the inability then of the faithful to come to Mass, Pluscarden Abbey began to make our liturgy available on the internet via live-streaming. This soon became established as a daily feature for Mass, Vespers and Compline. Especially with the house-bound in mind, the practice continued on even after the lock-downs ended. As a result, over the past 6 years or so, we have broadcast something over 5,000 liturgies. Our live-streaming brother has gradually refined and perfected his art: providing apt illustrations; switching as appropriate between 5 different fixed cameras; putting up translations of the Latin texts as they occur; adjusting sound levels; fixing technical glitches. Very many people from all over the world have enjoyed and benefitted from all this. Many have written to express their appreciation, and there have been some heart-warming stories associated with it. For not a few people, our live-streamed liturgies have been an inspiration, a consolation, an instruction: even a life-line.

But providing this service comes at considerable cost, especially to the brother who has to spend very many hours setting it all up and managing it: always under the relentless pressure of daily deadlines. Also: nowadays people who want to follow a live-streamed liturgy have an enormous range to choose from. Additionally: some brethren may feel a certain unease at this daily exposure to the public eye.

So in the summer of 2026 a decision has been taken, and our regular 3 times daily broadcasts have ceased.

We nevertheless retain both the equipment and the technical skill needed, should it be decided in future to live-stream any particular liturgy or service.