Churches speak on reopening
The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations has responded to government’s announcement that churches can allow sit in congregants for those fully vaccinated and adherence to covid-19 protocols.
In a statement signed by the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference, Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe and Union For Development of Apostolic and Zionist Churches in Zimbabwe Africa welcomed the move by government to open churches, however, seek detailed protocols so that the opening of churches is done smoothly.
“Theologically, the church is a open and welcoming space for everyone with no restrictions. The church will find it difficult to turn people home because they do not have vaccination certificate” read part of the statement.
This staggered opening of churches on the condition of being vaccinated raises theological and practical challenges.
“Practically, less than 10 percent of the population has been vaccinated. There is a group of citizens that does not get vaccinated due to age or because they have not yet had a change to be vaccinated. It will be difficult for the church to deny people to receive the means of grace simply because they have not been vaccinated when access to this vaccination is restricted” read the statement.
The head of denominations further encouraged church leaders to led by example in encouraging their members to get vaccinated. We also respect those churches who may chose to continue conducting online services until the nation reaches heard immunity.
Bishop Ancelimo Magaya, leader of Devine Destiny Network said we reject totally out of hand the government approach to enforce this vaccine process.
“This commandist and iron fist like approach to enforce vaccination of churches is unacceptable” fumed Magaya
“This approach promotes resistance and corruption. We have heard of reports of people buying vaccination cards. We need to promote the vaccine education so that citizens embrace what’s good for them” he added.
As at 11 August 2021, a total of 1 933 220 have been vaccinated with 1st dose and 1 084 392 2nd dose.
