Religion and Spirituality in Time of Corona Virus
The Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is due to change the current world order. Besides the economic implications, many social agents and institutions are adversely affected by this viral phenomenon. The global extent of the disruptions in educational institutions, religious practices, entertainment industry, including the media, have been totally unprecedented. The lack of predictability around this virus aggravates anxiety eliciting extreme measures, and some panic too. In any case, it has emerged that the defeat of COVID-19 requires a concerted effort led by the civil administrators.
The initial response of religions to the phenomenon of the novel virus has been a subject of debate, even in Kenya. It is a plain fact that religious gatherings have been early triggers for the spread of the contagion in many countries. The meeting of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in Korea, the Tablighi Jamaat gathering in India, the five-day evangelical worship in France, among others, are claimed to have been the epicentres of the early spread of the virus in those countries. Most of these events took place when governments had not yet imposed any bans. When governments did come down heavy on common gatherings, some religious leaders expressed reservation, arguing that religion would be a source of solace in these unsure times.
Science and Religion
At the heart of this imbroglio is the unnecessary conflict between faith and science at least since the time of Galileo Galilei of the 16th century. These days, scientists are more likely to be sympathetic towards religion, than religious leaders being up to date with science. This is particularly true in the African context.
Social scientists assert that people of faith rely on their religious leaders to frame their attitudes about scientific information. Well-educated people might seek assistance from their religious leaders in their ethical decisions in order to clear their consciences. For people who are less educated and traditional in their outlook, religious leaders might be a major source of scientific knowledge. Given this tight interaction between religion and science, religious leaders have a moral responsibility to be better informed, and more responsible in their words and choices.
In Kenya, the media called for a conscientious response from the religious bodies given the precarious nature of the current situations. Media’s uncompromising headlines about the churches and the clear directives from the government have made religious bodies to comply.
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https://www.nation.co.ke/oped/opinion/Coronavirus-spread-puts-religion-in-a-tight-spot/440808-5514454-c2itn1/index.html