Let’s respect and not abuse the relaxation of restrictions on houses of worship
As people return to their houses of worship it’s important that they religiously obey the rules that are part of the new normal. There should be 100 worshippers at a time.
This is an increase from 20. It’s a wonderful privilege and a relief.
Usually there is no limit to religious gatherings. It is not uncommon to have more than 100 attend these meetings. It was part of the old normal. COVID-19 forced it upon us and we have to live with it.
As we move to the next level in our journey to the new normal there is usually a temptation to push the boundary.
The Ministry of Health has been meeting with religious leaders to talk about how the ‘new normal’ will look in houses of worship and how they can adapt to protect Fijians who come to them.
The 100 figure is designed to help maintain safety through social distancing and other measures. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says “Science shows serious risks in houses of worship because of the close proximity, the intimacy of congregations and practices such as indoor singing – so we’ll be working hand-in-hand with our churches, mosques and temples to explain and limit these unique challenges.
“Government is also asking each church, mosques and temple to share the burden of responsibility and look after its congregation with the same duty of care that is at the centre of all its effort,” he said. Religious leaders need to ensure that they take ownership of the responsibility which includes :
Setting up of hand-washing stations
Limiting physical contact
Maintaining social-distancing
While people use God’s name to proclaim their faith, there is no excuse to use it as justification to violate the rules. In other words there should be a common sense approach. And obedience to the rules is Godly, particularly when it protects everyone.