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Pandemic Tests Believers and Religious Institutions

Six months into the global pandemic, the multiple crises sparked by COVID-19 test the faith of many around the world in many ways. However, kind and gracious acts from neighbors, individuals, charities, and faith communities are providing support to many who are in need, often without any discrimination by faith background. From India to Kenya, Catholic charity groups are distributing food, medicine, and other supplies to groups made most vulnerable by the pandemic. In Burkina Faso, Catholic-sponsored radio is an important medium through which people can hear sermons, receive educational direction, and hear news connecting them to other parts of the region.

Africa is an increasing focus of attention. Many Muslim and Christian faith leaders in Africa have expressed worry that the pandemic is causing them to lose followers and funding as restrictions hinder people from attending their services. Some fear that limits to religious gatherings due to COVID could lead to a crisis of faith, in communities as well as among their leaders. In Nigeria, there was anger that church services have been reduced to an hour (many services normally last well into the afternoon). Worshipping together is an important part of African religious devotion, so many struggle with the restrictions placed on what they can and cannot do within the church, such as physically touching. "Coming together is very important from an African point of view," said Christopher Byaruhanga, a professor of historical theology at Uganda Christian University. "We Africans want to live in a community. So the coronavirus is now redefining that community."

Global missionary efforts are also tested and derailed due to the surge of the pandemic. Physical distancing and closed borders pose new challenges for missionaries, including those seeking to take up the profession. The pandemic has reduced missionary work, seen through a decline in the number of priests and other clergy seeking to become missionaries. 
 
During Israel’s upcoming High Holy Days, new restrictions and lockdown measures due to a second wave of the virus have resulted in considerable frustration. The COVID-19 High Holy Days lockdown will last from September 18 until October 11, with travel from home for more than 500 meters forbidden, no indoor gatherings of more than 10, restaurants closed, and all public-receiving businesses like tourist sites, pools, and retail shops remaining closed. Jerusalem’s Great Synagogue is to be closed during the High Holy Days for the first time since it opened in 1958, due to public health advice and regulations. “We will all pray for a better year, and if God wills, we will pray in the Great Synagogue soon ‘in a multitude of people with the King’s glory’ healthy and whole,” the synagogue said.