Religious organizations have committed themselves in observing anti- Covid 19 guidelines set out by the Ministry of Health should the places of worship be allowed to operate.
During a consultative forum with the Eastern Regional Commissioner (RC), Isaiah Nakoru at Kenya School of Government in Embu town Wednesday, the religious leaders drawn from the region underscored the need to reopen the places of worship to give hope to Kenyans.
The Secretary to Embu Bishops and Pastors Fellowship, Rev. John Njue Gachungi appreciated concerns raised by government before allowing places of worship to resume operations, adding that as leaders they are committed in ensuring that all the government guidelines related to the raging pandemic were fully observed.
“We appreciate the government for recognizing religious organizations as essential services providers and we are ready to come in and help our worshippers who have been adversely affected by covid-19 with some even getting depression and others divorcing,” noted Rev. Gachungi.
He further said the spiritual leaders will form local religious committees that will oversee strict observation of the laid down regulations, adding that social distance will be observed, hence few congregants at a time but numerous church services.
On his part, treasurer to the Embu Muslim Community, Feiswad Hussein said the pandemic was not sparing members of any religious or ethnic group, but it can affect everybody, hence the need for concerted efforts to fight the menace.
Hussein further said that even after opening places of worship, as religious leaders they would ensure the fight against covi-19 pandemic is maintained.
On his part, Nakoru appreciated Eastern region residents for observing the health protocols laid down by the ministry of health which have helped in preventing infections.
The RC said the meeting with religious leaders was in line with the recent presidential directive, calling for dialogue with the religious fraternity on the possibility of reopening places of worship, while at the same time cushioning worshippers from Covid-19.
Nakoru urged the religious leaders, alongside preaching the word of God to also educate their congregations on how best to take personal responsibility in protecting themselves against the pandemic.
On donations for those affected by the pandemic, the Regional Commissioner directed all well-wishers to follow the laid down guidelines on contributions by always consulting County Covid-19 Emergency Response Committees for direction.
The forum had brought together leaders from various religious groups, including Hindu Community as well as Muslim and Christian faithful from the region.
By Kimani Tirus
