31 Mar 2020

Churches are synonymous with mass gatherings for their services, but of late the church has found itself in an uncommon situation due to restrictions on gatherings as a precautionary measure against the spread of COVID-19.

The once populated worship centres are deserted and their doors closed for congregants.

Nonetheless, most churches have turned to streaming their messages to ensure that the gospel continued to reach believers.

“We are committed to serving you wherever you are,” said Reverend Gabriel Tsuaneng of United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) in a message addressed to followers on Sunday.

In his address, Rev. Tsuaneng encouraged other church leaders to ensure that the gospel continued to reach members in any possible way while also observing precautions against COVID-19.

At another local church, Bible Life Botswana, Apostle Dr Enoch Setima took to the pulpit to preach the message titled organising my faith for defining moments which was live streamed.

It was a church service like any filled with worship and praise, with the only exception being that it had no physical audiences.

Elsewhere, Gospel of God’s Grace Ministries also live streamed its message titled: Choose the bright colour of praise rather than the dark colours of depression.

In the message, the church leader, Prophet Cedric Kobedi encouraged followers not to succumb to the current situation, but rather choose to bless God rather than to be miserable and depressed.

He said complaining, murmuring and questioning God only served to energise the situation.

While other churches opted to live stream messages, some churches posted messages to their followers on social media.

The decision by the church to go online followed the government’s decision to restrict the number of people at social gatherings amid the novel coronavirus, which has confined many believers to their homes.

Believers are obliged to watch services from the comfort of their homes and many churches have run precautionary messages advising followers not to attend church meetings until further noticed. ENDS