Churches Adapt to New Normal
As churches around the country opened their doors to worshippers yesterday, it was clearly evident the new normal was strictly followed. The Centenary Methodist Church in the heart of Suva City was no exception.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, in his announcement on June 21, said that places of worship would only allow 100 worshippers at a time.
Services at the Centenary Church were divided into three sessions in order for members to adhere to the 100 maximum capacity. Church Steward Ilaitia Koroi said they had welcomed the decision by Government to keep the numbers of worshippers to 100 at a time. They ensured that all health and safe practices measures were followed yesterday.
“For now we have divided our members by the three services that we have on Sundays,” Mr Koroi said.
“We have seven sectors within the church. Sector two and three have their service from 8am to 9.30am, sector six and seven have theirs at 10am to 11.30am and sectors one, four and three attend the 3pm to 4.30pm service.
“By doing that we are ensuring that a maximum number of 100 worshipers are in church at a time.”
He said they had provided hand sanitisers for all members to use before they entered the church. They also have a log book that members have to sign so they may attend the service and to ensure that numbers were closely monitored.
“We also have our livestream through our livestream platform still going on as many members are not able to get to church,” he said.
“We have our senior pastors and members of the church who have begun home visits to the sick and elderly this morning as they cannot be here in church.”
Mr Koroi added that it was important that everyone followed through health restrictions for the benefit of every Fijian. Meanwhile, in Labasa, Evangel Temple Church administrator Peter Turaganivalu said the church had also welcomed 100 worshippers for two separate sessions yesterday.
He said social distancing was maintained and sanitisers were used.
“Our focus now is to pray for the nation, though Fiji is COVID-19 free, but our prayers are for the employees who have been going through a tough time,” he said. “My message to all Fijians out there is to take precautionary measures and stay safe during this pandemic.”