Church and Easter services have been suspended until further notice, however, members of congregations like New Life Church and Church on The Hill (CoTH) can livestream sermons.
In a statement issued by CoTH, branches are requested to work with the marketing and communications departments for online service solutions. “The arrangements are meant for members and their families to be protected from the coronavirus, which is why they should not attend any services.”
Church Unlimited has a plan for congregants to meet in small groups, while others have opened their homes. Past Etienne Garnett-Bennett said other members can livestream Sunday services on their social media pages.
“We don’t want to lose the fellowship, so we’ve come up with these kinds of plans. In terms of offerings, we advised our congregation to rather do so through EFT than hard cash, because the virus could easily spread. We will exercise the necessary precautions until the pandemic is under control.”
New Life Church will also have its sermon streamed online and members are encouraged to use internet banking to give offerings.
Bishop Anderson Matsane, of Latter Glory Church in Swalala Trust, said personal and spiritual health is important. “As much as we have faith, it is critical to apply wisdom.”
Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army in southern Africa, Col Daniel Kasuso said although this will impact Easter programmes, a schedule for groups will be set for services. “Social media and other creative ways to reach our soldiers should be put into practice. There are ways to continue to meet as a church, but we must also spread the word of caring for others, especially the vulnerable,” said Kasuso.
It was announced on Tuesday that the Zion Christian Church pilgrimage in Moria, which attracts more than three million members, has also been cancelled.
