COVID is alive and well in Johannesburg but Jesus is stronger! In June/July, South Africa was back in ‘lockdown level 4’. Church gatherings were forbidden and schools were closed. Johannesburg was more seriously affected than ever before. Several members of our congregation have been very sick but so far there haven’t been any deaths (though many have lost loved ones).

In August the country began opening up again and gatherings of up to 50 are allowed. Vaccine uptake is slow and scepticism is rampant, but at least vaccines are available for all adults who want them (including both of us!). In a recent survey by Afrobarometer, more than 50% of South Africans say they are unlikely to get vaccinated and over 40% believe prayer offers better protection than a jab. Isn’t that both devastating and challengingly encouraging at the same time?!