Pastor Chris Okotie, the Senior Pastor of Household of God Church International Ministries, has kicked against the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) proposed social distancing guidelines for churches.
Pastor Okotie frowned at CAN’s decision to allow what he described as the ‘Idol of Coronavirus’ determine the scope of congregational worship in churches in Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement he posted on his official Facebook page.
The cleric referenced a report published in the media earlier where CAN unveiled guidelines for the reopening of churches in the first week of June.
He said, “Social distancing in the Church of Jesus Christ is tantamount to blasphemous infidelity and an impeachment of the integrity of the Word of God. Healing is fundamental to the redemptive work of Jesus.
“To allow the idol of Corona Virus to determine the scope of congregational worship in the house of God is an abomination of gargantuan proportions. No true minister of the gospel will succumb to such travesty of the faith. This is a summary of my objections.
“I have sent this message hoping that you would respond as one who bears the burden of the Cross of Jesus. I have restrained myself from making a public outcry of this desecration and profanation out of respect for you and the CAN hierarchy. But be assured that this position is transient.”
Pastor Chris was the presidential candidate of Fresh Democratic Party.
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 in Nigeria, a ban has been placed on social and religious gatherings in the country to curb the spread of the virus.
But some Nigerian pastors have challenged the directive.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, of Christ Embassy has also berated his fellow pastors in Nigerian that complied with the government’s ban on large gatherings because of coronavirus.
Thanks for reading this. Please like it, comment and share this story. Also follow Julius Adegunna, and PTL News on our social Media handles, or call 234-8033260387, 8120969883.
