Faith Leaders and Their Strategic Roles During Pandemic in Sikka
During the Covid-19 pandemic, many things have changed, including how faith leaders worked. They no longer advising the pulpit but moving toward the congregation. This is also carried out by RD. Hendrik Nong, Pastor of the Sikka Parish, who during the pandemic has carried out two dissemination to the public regarding reducing the stigma of Covid-19.
The dissemination is a follow-up to the activities that have been done by RD. Hendrik followed approximately two months ago. In December 2020, Wahana Visi Indonesia (WVI) Sikka Area Program in collaboration with the Maumere Diocese Puspas held training for religious leaders to share about child protection, reducing stigma, psychosocial and positive parenting. This space is also a way for pastors or religious leaders to talk and hear directly about the needs and challenges faced by their followers.
“Thank you to the Pastor and the team from the Diocese and WVI for coming to visit us. With this activity, we were given insight into the correct way to handle Covid-19. As parents, we must be more patient in assisting our children during this time,” said Agustina Gonda, one of the congregation.
Not only RD. Hendrik, there are still four other religious figures who actively provide socialization with the same theme at the station and parish levels, namely religious figures in the Wairpelit, Lekebai, and Koangpopot Parishes.
"The activities with the appropriate theme during the Covid-19 pandemic are very helpful for parishioners because not all parishioners have adequate human resources to find out about the latest issues," said RD. Hendrik.
This pandemic is like a test for "class promotion" for all people in the world. Keep moving and be useful for others should be the determination of everyone in this season. Just as the religious leaders in Sikka did, who always wanted to reach out to the congregation with love, they did it with sincerity.
Written by: Herning Tyas Ekaristi, Staff of Sikka Area Program Wahana Visi Indonesia
