Seite 23 [23]
LEADERSHIP DURING A LOCKDOWN
and conducting “competitions” for Bible studies that were sent to homes, mostly
in a digital format as the data shows.
The Service Going Medical
As medical needs were central during the pandemic, the survey tool included
questions on the specific services offered by the church servants. An over¬
whelming 90% of respondents highlighted raising awareness of the pandemic
and prevention of its spread. The organization of the service of medical con¬
sultation was highlighted by a large majority (68% of church leaders). More
technical medical services were also organized, including the provision of
support in finding beds for patients in hospitals (mentioned by 44% of respond¬
ents) and the task of making oxygen cylinders available to very sick people
(mentioned by 32%). This data can be understood in light of the pressure exerted
on the healthcare system at the time and the unavailability of services to many
people, particularly to those from a lower socio-economic background. Churches
and church leaders leveraged all possible resources to support those in need
in this difficult time, as shown by Table 2.
Table 2. The Introduction of Medical Services
Service Responses %
Health education and awareness about the pandemic 90%
Made oxygen cylinders available to patients 32%
Provided medical consultation remotely 68%
House visits 18%
Referred patients to hospitals 44%
These results can be understood in light of the health care situation in the
country, which was severely tested by the pandemic.
Addressing the Economic Challenges
The economic impact of the lockdown and the pandemic was felt by many
people. Almost all church leaders noted that their churches had to provide
temporary financial assistance to people who were economically affected (91%).
This was followed by the service of providing guidance and support to find
work for those who lost their jobs (highlighted by 37% of respondents). The
third approach was to provide food boxes, which was highlighted by 11% of
+ 21°