The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic : religion and spirituality in these challenging times

Abstract

The pandemic has caused much heartache and hardship. Most people have had family members or friends who have contracted the virus. Worse still, many have had family members or friends who succumbed to it. Those who have not taken sick have found that the virus had thrown their lives in disarray. When possible, many worked from home. Others lost their jobs. Our cities, streets and restaurants were deserted. People were spending much more time at home with the uncommon experience of having a lot of time at their disposal. Many found this a burden as they did not know how to utilise it. For sure, the pandemic put people’s lives on pause. At the same time, it gave them the opportunity to reflect on their lives and other existential issues. This could have been a surprise for many.