Coronavirus: Methodist church to continue services despite ban on large religious gatherings

Methodist Church, Nigeria, says it would continue to hold services despite a directive issued by some state governments (Lagos inclusive) banning gatherings of more than 50 people.

In a letter addressed to archbishops, bishops and lay presidents, the church directed that all local branches must be fumigated with immediate effect.

“The pandemic is not just a threat to humanity but a brutal challenge to our corporate existence,” the letter which was signed by Samuel Kanu Uche, the prelate, read.

“As the leader of the people called Methodists in Nigeria, I therefore direct that services should be continued unrestricted as sanitizers would be provided at the entrance of the churches

“Our local churches will be fumigated with immediate effect and preferably on a regular basis. Shaking of hands during the service will be discontinued until further notice.

“All our churches must be cleared of garbage, stagnant water, weeds and all overgrowths.”

When TheCable reached out to the church for comments, the church said services would be held “with wisdom”.

It said sanitisers are being used in Australia as a preventive measure to combat the spread of the virus.

The church said it would disinfect public conveniences, suspend the use of chalice for the next four weeks and discontinue open-air outreaches.

Uche also said the church would continue in intensive prayers and fasting for God’s intervention at this critical time.