Fellowship might never return to normal
LOCAL church leader Reverend Cyril Pillay said the easing of Covid-19 restrictions did not mean people must let their guard down.
“Now that the curfew is relaxed, the church must be more cautious. Caution is the word. We have always had tight Covid rules and upheld all our protocols,” said Pillay.
Pillay, who leads the People’s Church of God in Chatsworth, said attendance was negatively affected by the Covid-19 restrictions.
“About 60% of the congregation has been in touch, and a great part of that 60% have been attending church and contributing to offerings and tithes (one-tenth of annual produce or earnings for the support of the church and its work).”
He said it was however financially tough. “We remain hopeful. As the church is a faith-based institution, God always takes care of this church.”
Pillay said even though there were some members who were still undecided about returning to church, there had been a gradual increase in attendance.
“People are looking for hope and certainty, and it seems the majority find solace
and care in the church community.”
He said most members had opted to watch the church services online via their numerous social media platforms. Pillay said he thought the regular church configuration and fellowship might never return to normal.
“There are numerous ways the church has had to adapt its ministry to meet the spiritual, social, psychological and other needs of its members,” he said.