Kwatsaduza residents have their say on the reopening of churches

Kwatsaduza – The community of Kwatsaduza had mixed feeling regarding President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to reopen churches from June 1, as per level three regulations.

God’s Glory Worship Centre in Dunnottar senior pastor Mxolisi Mabena says he welcomes the decision.

“I am thankful for this decision.

“People have this tendency of making churchgoers seem like they do not know how to use their brains, as if we are unable to think with reason.

“Of course the safety and lives of our members are of utmost importance to us; therefore, our people remain our top priority.

“Churches need to follow the rules and regulations as announced by our president and facilities must be sanitised before and after church services,” says Mabena.

He explains people are spiritual beings who need spiritual fulfillment.

“Yes, we can all pray and worship in our own personal spaces, but that’s not enough as people need support and guidance.

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“With that said, those who are not comfortable to go back to church due to Covid-19 will not be forced to do so.

“People are allowed to make their own decisions and continue to stay at home, as we live in a democratic country.”

Tsakani resident Sizwe Mtsilwa is opposing the decision and says it is too soon.

“Reopening churches marks the end of lockdown.

“I mean there’s no way they will be able to abide by the rules.

“In the beginning of the lockdown we were told things could get worse during winter; therefore, I feel it’s too early for the reopening.

“They should consider opening after the peak around September.

“It is nonsensical to allow people to go to church and others not go to work

“Risks we should be taking should be on the economic activities only,” he says.

Apostle Seeiso Manzi from HighPoint Church in Duduza says: “The decision was best and I fully support it, simply because there’s so much happening in the world which is affecting people negatively.

“Over 80 percentage of South Africans claim to be Christians, according to Stats SA, and have always sought help from the church.

“Now more than ever people need spiritual and psychological support.

“As minister of the gospel, my congregants need me to be by their side more so during these difficult times.”

He adds safety measures are to be followed at all times.

“We will adhere to the health and safety protocols as prescribed by the government and furthermore shorten the services so people are not in the same space for long periods.

“All chairs will be moved 1.5m apart to ensure adequate social distancing, everyone upon arrival will be sanitised and, of course, we will encourage people to wear masks.

Also read: Local pastor offers tips on how to run the church through his book

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