When I was deeply active in Christian churches when I was younger, I experienced a great many of the aspects of life as a member of a congregation.
First, the building is more than just a structure. It's a House of Worship and it's deeply respected by the congregation. It's where they meet for religious services, baptisms, deaths, community events, social events and much more. While I expect that many parishioners would concede that online services are better than nothing, it would only be by a small amount.
Second, it would be difficult for a Priest to maintain anonymity while performing the Act of Contrition. Texting is also a dangerous medium for people to confess their deepest sins. I mean, if it ain't safe to send an erotic photo of one's self then it's probably not a good idea to confess in a text that one is cheating on their spouse.
Third, regarding the cash, yeah, churches need their members to financially support them. It's part of doing God's work. However, many parishioners don't drop their coin in the plate at services. Instead they tithe and make periodic payments to fulfill their contributions.
Having written all of that, let me say that I think it's stupid to have any kind of mass gatherings until we're all immunized or have had the damn disease. People who MUST go to religious services really don't understand what faith is all about.
More importantly, the Covid-19 virus is just one more example that there is no god. If god were a "loving and caring" creature, why would it allow this virus to decimate its creation? Some love.
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