Level 3 lockdown: Mixed emotions as churches re-open
Local pastor says there are problems regarding infrastructure and water provision in rural areas
Places of worship may resume religious services under strict restrictions during level 3 of the national lockdown. This was said by President Cyril Ramaphosa on May 26 while addressing the nation.
President Ramaphosa announced that churches, mosques, synagogues and temples may resume religious services, as long as service attendance is limited to 50 people or less, depending on the space available. In addition, all safety precautions must be followed, including wearing face masks and using sanitizers.
Mixed emotions have arisen from the president’s statement, as Pastor AT Maphalala (chairperson of Pastors under uThukela District) said she is not sure if all congregations are ready to resume under level 3 lockdown. “We have different congregations around uThukela District, which means we cannot all be ready at the same time. It will be difficult for those with more than 200 congregants, as the president made it clear that there should be 50 people or less in church at one time.”
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She continued to say that rural areas often do not have proper infrastructure and people sometimes gather in rondawels. Hence, social distancing will be impossible. Water provision is also a problem in many rural areas, meaning that congregants won’t be able to wash their hands regularly as a safety precaution.
“Our Sunday School children know nothing about social distancing and wearing face masks, so that is another challenge we are faced with,” added Pastor Maphalala.
She did, however, give her assurance that congregations will adhere to what the president has ordered, as far as possible. “As leaders in our congregations, we will work hand-in-hand with the president, because we believe he was anointed and chosen by God to lead the country. Congregations that are ready to resume can do so,” concluded Pastor Maphalala.
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