Archbishop Alexander C. Ibezim’s Pastoral Letter on Covid-19
Bishop Ibezim
My dear pastors and beloved people of God
Covid-19: the position of the Province/diocese
Greetings of the Lenten Seasons
In all situations, we must give thanks to God for the lives He has given to us. The current and ravaging endemic disease- Corona Virus has actually terrorized the entire world, but God is still God. He is still in control and rules over the universe.
We want to appreciate the Governor and the Government of Anambra State for her concerted efforts in combating the deadly disease.
In line with Governments directives, we want to restate that all actions of the Church should be in line with World Health Organization’s Standard. Consequently, the Province has prayerfully taken the following decisions:
1) Maintain high health standards and clean environments
2) Provide hand washing facilities and educate and enforce strict compliance.
3) Maintain approved spacing standards of 5-6 feet’s
4) All Church activities in the Diocese that usually attract large crowds have been suspended until further notice. These includes: Elshaddai Monthly programme, Palm Sunday Processions, Diocesan Lenten Prayer Convention, Collation of Archdeacons and Installation of Canons, vigils, weddings, burials, and other forms of celebrations.
5) The Diocese had earlier banned the celebration of peace which includes shaking of hands, hugging, e.t.c
6) The use of a common cup for wine-distribution in Holy Communion Services has been banned. Church have been directed to procure and use small disposable cups henceforth.
7) Vicars and Parish Priests are encouraged to maintain office hours with prayers said at intervals of 9am, 12noon, 3pm and 6pm. The prayers can be organized for the Vicar’s family, with that of there Curates, Church Teachers/Catechists and neighbours.
8) The operative hours of our offices in the Diocese has been limited to 9am to 12noon until further notice. These include the Diocesan Central Office, Deanery/Archdeaconries, Parishes, Churches and Institution’s offices.
9)All officiating Ministers are advised to be snappy in the activities, not lasting more than one hour for each function
10) While relying and depending on the Mercy of God for His divine intervention, we continue to pray for this scourge to pass over us in Jesus Name. Amen
