The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kaduna State Chapter, says the reopening of places of worship by Kaduna State Government is a time to responsibly show good and Godly examples.
Rev. John Hayab, the CAN state Chairman CAN, in a statement issued on Wednesday in Kaduna, thanked Gov. Nasir El-Rufai and the State Standing Committee on COVID-19 for allowing places of worship to reopen.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the government has allowed Churches and Mosques to open for Sunday and Juma’at services only, after 75 days lockdown enforced to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the state.
“During the period of lockdown, many experienced hardships, but it should not be a regrettable experience because it actually helped to reduce the number of persons infected and we recorded a lower death rate in our dear state.
“CAN wish to thank all those who obeyed government and health professionals guideline to help stop the spread of the virus during the 75 days lockdown.
“Now that we have been allowed to resume partial normal life activities, especially resuming church gatherings, CAN Kaduna State appeals to all faithful and the general public to show good and Godly examples.
“The Bible says, ‘to let our light shone that all may see and give glory to God’.
“Accordingly, our people should not be carried away with the joy of lifting the restriction of movement and totally forget health matters, for it is only when there is a life that we can worship and do our businesses,” he said.
The cleric called on all Pastors and Church Elders to give Godly and wise leadership at this delicate time.
He said Churches must continue to observe all protocols and guidelines that have been laid down by the Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
Hayab said all worshippers should come with their face mask during worship services, adding that churches should help to provide face masks for those who do not have and cannot afford one.
He also called for adequate provision of hand sanitizers or handwashing materials in homes and churches during worship services.
“We should maintain good hygiene at all times and observe physical distancing in our seating arrangements. Worshippers are to seat two meters away from one another.
“Let’s make good use of our members who are medical workers for proper use of Infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of every worshipper.
“Our Governor has challenged us to take personal responsibility. Therefore, CAN also appeal to all to take this personal responsibility challenge seriously.
“Together we will stop the spread of this virus and eventually defeat the virus.
“Also, we must continue to offer prayers for those who are infected by the virus and those in the frontline working day and night to attend to us about this pandemic,” Hayab said.
