COLUMBUS — Many church-goers are finding alternate ways to practice their faith as the pandemic has changed how people celebrate the holiday season.

Columbus resident Ashley Competti has been going to church for as long as she can remember.

“I grew up with a religious family, so we would go to church every Sunday or Saturday depending on the weekend and when I went to college I still tried to remain true to that,” said Competti.

Competti went to a Catholic grade school and high school and said faith has always been an important part of her life, especially during the month of December.

“I honestly think that this will be the first year that it’s an online Christmas,” she said.

The same will be true for many around the world, shifting to alternative ways to worship during the coronavirus pandemic. It’s something Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Wendy BeMiller said may be a way to stay connected.

“I think if your church offers a virtual service, definitely try to participate in the virtual service,” said BeMiller.

For those feeling anxious or disappointed that they won't be able to celebrate their religious holiday as usual, BeMiller said they are not alone with these thoughts.

“It is perfectly normal to feel this way, this is something that none of us have any experience with or have any ability to control,” BeMiller said.

Competti admitted she will miss gathering for an in-person service on Christmas Day.

"It’s really going to be weird just because you’re so used to watching the choir and being in a huge community during Christmas time, so it’s just going to be a virtual community,” Competti said.

But, she said she understands it’s what she has to do right now.

“Working as a nurse has really shown me the importance of what we’re doing virtually and creating different aspects of community, and of course it’s a super difficult time during the holiday,” she said.