Four high-profile, charismatic churches which spoke to this paper argued that they were not reopening, citing that chances of spreading the Covid-19 coronavirus are still high.

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“Well, we would love to reopen as our members and communities have been calling on us, but I believe it is still very early to do so. We cannot just risk the lives of our people,” said Bishop Mduduzi Khoza of Zoe International Ministries.

He said in as much as they would love to open, churches also have an obligation to protect and save lives.
“Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that those that are reopening doors are out of line. No, they are not. I am sure that they have good reasons and intentions of going back to church now, but as long as they will apply all the safety measures that are there.

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“For us, not reopening our church has to do with safety of our members and communities. We are aware that they miss church, but for now we will continue to use online platforms to communicate, worship and pray,” he continued.

The ZCC also advised its members not to return to church, citing safety and health reasons.
Not all churches though share the same sentiments as many opened doors this past Sunday.