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Places of worship on the Central Coast move service outdoors under state's purple tier restrictions

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Central Coast churches are adapting to more restrictive guidelines as San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties return to the purple tier.

In place of inside gatherings, churches like the Redeemer Baptist Church in Paso Robles are relying on Zoom and drive-in worship services once again.

Under the purple tier, many non-essential businesses such as places of worship, are required to stop all indoor services.

Chris Cole, the lead pastor of the Redeemer Baptist Church, said the importance of worshipping together outweighs the outdoor restrictions.

"I think people are very excited to come out. In fact, what we've heard overwhelmingly is how good it is to be together with each other," Cole said.

Cole said members of the church are advised not to hug or shake hands with others.

Other churches on the Central Coast, including Mountainbrook Church in San Luis Obispo are forgoing outdoor venues and returning to live streaming only.