CAN President
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has directed churches in the country to comply with the existing COVID-19 protocols and other fresh guidelines relating to the cross-over services.
The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 had asked state governments to take measures to halt the outbreak of the second wave of the pandemic.
The Force also imposed a curfew between 12 midnight and 4am.
Consequently, some state governments have announced restriction on December 31, the new year eve.
Governor Babajide of Lagos State, the epicentre of the virus, directed worship centres to suspend all-night services, including vigils and crossover services as a way to contain the spread of the virus.
CAN President, Reverend Samson Ayokunle, in a statement on December 29, asked churches in the states where restrictions have been announced not to stay beyond 11pm to enable worshippers return home in time.
“We understand the unfortunate state the COVID-19 infection has put everybody world over which caused some state governments to place total ban on cross-over night service, and we are not happy that we would not be able to enter into the new year prayerfully in joint fellowship with our brothers and sisters,” he said.
“We however urge you all to abide by the directives of each state government on this so as to prevent the spread of the infection. There is no sacrifice that is too much in order to put an end to the pandemic once and for all. One thing that is certain is that, the end of COVID-19 is here at last in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. It is a passing phase, and this too shall pass away in Jesus name. Very soon, the pandemic will become history, and we will return to our usual routine service.”
Ayokunle also appealed to local authorities to strictly adhere to the safety measures in markets and motor parks.
Meanwhile, some of Nigeria’s biggest churches have announced the cancellation of the crossover night services in compliance with the fresh directive on such services.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and the Living Faith Church Worldwide on Tuesday cancelled their crossover services earlier to hold on the new year eve.
A memo signed by the Assistant General Overseer (AGO) in charge of Admin/Personnel at the RCCG, Pastor Johnson Odesola, said rather than gathering physically in churches, there would be live streaming of the crossover service.
He urged the members of the church to link up virtually on its television, Dove TV, and other on-line platforms.
A source in the Living Faith Church said the church may meet earlier to praise and give God praises for the gift of life despite the pandemic and to place their requests for 2021 before God.