COVID-19 pandemic: The role of the methodist church Ghana-Kumasi Diocese, in combating the pandemic. A case study in Wesley Methodist Church in Kumasi Metropolis

The COVID -19 pandemic has had enormous impact on the world especially in areas of health care, education sectors, several social systems including religious organization and the global economy. This outbreak caused significant chaos in almost all aspect of our livelihood due to some drastic measures (lockdown) that needed to be put in place for humankind’s safety. To answering the research question and to get a deeper understanding of the impact of the pandemic on the livelihood of persons from my country, Ghana, this study was conducted with the use of the qualitative approach to have a deeper insight as to how the leadership of the Methodist church in Kumasi; Wesley Cathedral has assisted its members. with health education, advocacy, and technology support. The main source of data collection was by means of interviews, complemented with observation and some documents. The interview was a semi- structured one which was flexible and gave me the opportunity to probe questions without compromising the participants freedom to explain the topic in question (Bryman, 2012). A total of eight (8) individuals were selected as the sample size which included both males and female within the church. This also included the leadership (clergy ministers and leaders) and ordinary members to assist with the interviews conducted. Some observation of the church premises was done as well. Four main themes were established from the findings gathered: First, education on what the virus is and what measures are required in ensuring safety. Second, impact on church activities and how the church is reaching out to its members with the word of God. Third, commitment of the members of the church towards activities. Four, support (financial, psychological, medical) of the church to it members. Analyses was thematically done then interpreted and discussed in relation to the theories used in this research. The study establishes that health education, the use of technology support and provision of social relieve services were the means the leadership of the church promoted to combating the spread of corona virus. From a diakonia perspective all participants established that the church is contributing to help it suffering members through expressing of love and support to make up for their financial, health, spiritual and other social needs. Empowerment in the light of the impact on the church activities has influenced members positively. The view of the virus and the mode of spread has changed and have taught people to change the health behaviour patterns by believing and adapting positive behaviour trends through observing all protocols. The social influence theory also played its role; in relation to the theme the education on what the virus is and the measures required in ensuring safety made members understood the realities of the virus and adhered to the directives from the nation which the leadership of the church pass on to the members and that contributed to reduce the spread of the virus as for example wearing of nose mask, washing of hands and sanitising hands were strictly observed by all members including the leadership. The study concludes and recommends various suggestions and emphasis were placed on the use of technology to access internet to reach out to members. Leadership should intensify education on the use and access of various media platforms for the inspirational word of God