Kyrgyzstan Coronavirus (COVID-19) 20 April 2020

From a pastor in the south of the country

“Sowing is in full swing, wherever there is no emergency mode, people work. Where there is quarantine, it’s difficult, there are cases of serious restrictions.

“[Food security] is the most difficult moment at this time. Most of the food, such as flour, butter, cereals, flour products, are imported, and the borders in most of them are closed, somewhere partially, somewhere completely. There is enough food at the moment, but there is a serious assumption that in the near future they will begin to be missed. I hope that by that time appropriate measures will be taken.

“An emergency situation and state of emergency modes have been introduced throughout the country. The government circulated a request to restrict all religious events; in regions with a state of emergency, this is an obligation… many leaders of Christian associations decided not to give a reason and completely stop meetings, all switched to online ministry, the Internet and social networks were involved.

“The most common difficulty is quality, online ministry. Often, online sermon videos are difficult to watch, and this needs to be learned. Both in terms of the presentation of information, and in the form, in the sense of professional design… There are many desires to serve, but what actions to perform, how to do this is not so well known. Most do something just for the sake of action, and sometimes even to the detriment, especially in quarantine.

“My personal phrases from the Scripture that came to my heart and give comfort are from Dan.11: 32. … but the people who know their God will display strength and take action. And also John.14: 27. "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” Of course, there are many other biblical places and stories that encourage, strengthen, motivate and console in this not calm time.

“Christ is truly Risen, we believe in the living Lord.”