We are reaching you at these unusual and trying times of the COVID-19 virus pandemic that is threatening and disrupting our normal life processes across the globe. It is unprecedented in our recent history that a pandemic like this redefines the way we live and go about our life activities. We are challenged to adapt and adopt various approaches and life styles to stay safe and remain resilient. We are glad however that the current situation has heightened our faith and hope in the living God, the Creator and sustainer of the universe; our strong tower and our Comforter, the eternal God, who is our refuge and underneath are His everlasting arms.
Brothers and Sisters in the Lord, our national governments have put in place stringent precautionary measures to protect us including restricting gatherings and movements of people in the public space. Some of us are not happy that we are unable to gather for our various worship services neither are we able to engage with others as we have wishes. We are aware of some resentments to these restrictions and especially our inability to meet for worship services during this period leading to EASTER. We can understand the feels being expressed but please let us understand that these measures are for our good and for the sake of our neighbours to who we are called to love. The viral infection does not discriminate and does not respect any creed, race or ethnicity. We are all at the mercy of our Lord who gives us peace (Psalm 46:10)
Friends, these of times of unprecedented media propaganda about the pandemic. We wish to serious encourage all to heed news and information from credible sources like the WHO, our National Ministries of Health and not from the various print and electronic media outlets, worse of all the social media. There are a lot of new put out there only to create fear and panic. We have not been given over to the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and of a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7). Let us be wise and discerning as to what we wish to listen to and believe.
We assure you of our prayers and wish to encourage you all to understand that:
- Although there is a restriction on church gathering, there is no restriction on Daily Bible Reading. If ever there is a time to read the scriptures, it is such a time as this. Let us remember our mantra, “No Bible, No Breakfast”.
- Although there is a restriction on church gathering, there is no restriction on Quiet Time. If ever there was a time to observe our quiet time more, it is such a time as this. Remember, Quiet Time is our spiritual fuel for the day.
- Although there is a restriction on church gathering, there is no restriction on Prayer. If ever there was a time to pray more, it is such a time like this. Remember, Prayer is the Master Key.
- Although there is a restriction on church gathering, there is no restriction on exercising our Faith. If ever there was a time to demonstrate Faith, it is such a time as this. Remember “He has not given us a spirit of fear” and “without Faith it is impossible to please God.”
We shall surely overcome with God on our side. May God keep us safe till our next fellowship and may we nonetheless celebrate the joys of EASTER now as never before even in these trying times.
With love and prayerful support along the way.
Yours faithfully,
MOST REV. ALBERT CHAMA
PRIMATE OF THE CURCH OF CENTRAL AFRICA AND
CAPA CHAIRMAN
