Pastors are dying after contracting Covid-19, allegedly from funeral services. Pastors across the Lowveld have since raised their concerns regarding their safety.
Ps Simon Mdluli said, “We have lost so many pastors due to the virus and some are still recovering in hospitals.
There are so many activities that happen at funerals, including the time spent at the deceased’s home, before leaving for the burial site. There is also the time spent at the cemetery plus that after the funeral while waiting for food to be served and all the socialising. Covid-19 can easily be spread from person to person hence the need for government to intervene,” he said.
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Some pastors state that with the closure of churches many of them have not been afford to buy PPE yet they are still expected to render their services not only for their congregation, but for non-church members too.
They alleged that some pastors contracted the pandemic while comforting families of the bereaved as some people do not disclose their status.
“In the true sense pastors find themselves on the frontline during funerals, and there is no way we cannot bury our church members despite the risks. “What I have also noted is that some families don’t disclose the cause of death and that is a concern. And worse, the Covid-19 protocols are not always followed. We leave everything in God’s hands,” said Ps Sibongile Gondwe.
continue to render their essential services to people, but under extremely strict adherence to the Covid-19 regulations and safety protocols. In addition, I think PPE should be a must for spiritual leaders while administering such important duties,” he said.
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Apostle Dimakatso Trinity Mongwe recently took to social media and wrote an open letter to President Cyril Ramaphosa. She pleaded with the president to provide PPE to pastors.
“They are responsible for burying all the souls mentioned in the death statistics. My humble request is that you and your cabinet consider providing the necessary PPE to them. Sadly there are remote areas that do not have access to much-needed safety apparel. Will you and your cabinet please consider providing PPE?” she wrote. Mongwe also asked the president to arrange seminars to equip pastors on how to conduct Covid-19 funerals.
