While the nation tries to adapt to living with COVID-19, the doors to churches in Samoa remain closed until the Cabinet decides otherwise.

It has been three weeks since church services were prohibited, as a response to prevent further community transmission of the virus, which has already increased to four digit figures. 

Asked about the possibility of resuming church services and limiting the number of those in attendance, the Government advisory body on COVID-19 said the decision is entirely up to the Cabinet. 

The Chairman of the National Emergency Operation Centre (N.E.O.C.) Agafili Shem Leo, in a recent virtual press conference, said any suggestions for churches to reopen will be up to the Cabinet. 

He was asked about the possibility of resuming church services and limiting the numbers, while being mindful of the fact there are crowds of people in shopping centres and long queues compared to religious gatherings. 

Agafili said as Samoa is a Christian country, the Committee has not overlooked this area during its deliberation, though not all churches worship on Sundays as others do it during the week days.  

“There are areas that need to be considered and protection is also important,” replied Agafili. “Firstly our church gatherings are crowded with people welcoming it because we always put God first in everything. 

“There are considerations that should reflect the protection of our country and there have been incidents that occurred in other countries that has driven the spread of the virus.” 

The N.E.O.C. Chairman said the question was thought provoking but it all comes down to the Cabinet and its consideration. 

Under the Alert Level 3 response church gatherings are prohibited while funeral services are allowed on certain hours prescribed on the three days where essential services are opened. 

The terms and conditions of having funeral services allow only 10 family members and the church minister in attendance. 

Some churches have turned to virtual services, going online to give their followers' spiritual guidance during the nationwide lockdown. 

During the last Alert Level 2 church services were permitted but was restricted to only 30 people in attendance.