While many negatives, relating to Covid-19, are affecting general life in Anguilla, the Church of God of Prophecy is claiming that there are some positives as well.
One of the main things is that, at the same time, the virus has brought out the need for a more conscious realisation for Christian worship and fellowship – notwithstanding the protocols for safety.
District Overseer and Pastor of the West End Church of God of Prophecy, Dr. Samuel Daniel, told The Anguillian newspaper: “I would say, in a positive way, than many of the congregants are now cleaving to their faith in God, and a lot of persons are now frequenting the Assembly for the services. In addition, we have had a number of visitors for several occasions. People are now trusting God to assist them during this time of hardship.”
Questioned about the time when his Church was forced to close to large attendances, and to resort to social media, he replied: “That, too, was a positive in that we were able to go online for many of the services, and were in a position to reach further afield, a greater audience than in the church itself. With that, also came the realisation that things can change suddenly – and so people’s faith in God has been challenged and they have become more devoted. It is therefore quite a positive spin that has come out of this adverse situation.”
In addition to the English Language Church at West End, Bishop Daniel also has supervisory responsibility for the Spanish-speaking congregation at South Hill – and those at the new ministry in Welches. “The Covid-19 experience has also caused the Spanish membership, like us, to cleave together,” he said.
The Bishop added that the ministry in Welches was growing despite the unfortunate disappearance, at sea, of its Spanish leader some two years ago. The ministry is being carried on by the late leader’s wife, whom Bishop Daniel has commended for her work.
