Despatches from the frontline: Parish responses to COVID-19 and some initial analysis

ABSTRACT

This article seeks to answer the question: What is God doing at this time of pandemic crisis in our Churches and communities? Through qualitative enquiry and the lens of liberation theology, data from Anglican parishes in South West England is explored and analysed. Four basic themes emerge: Bible, Liturgy, Lament, and Liberation; for each of these, rich data extracts are provided, including the author’s own account. I conclude that while it is much easier to ascertain what the Churches are doing, it still is possible to say something provisionally about God: that in the gaps between a search for meaning and the chaos and discomfort of actual experience, God may be opening to humankind a glimpse of a different life. A reorientation towards care for the vulnerable neighbour, and new models for community may provide the hope that resurrection follows the darkness of crucifixion.

KEYWORDS:

• COVID-19
• qualitative research
• liberation theology
• postmodern theology
• Christian liturgy
• theodicy

Acknowledgements

I should like to thank all those who contributed to questionnaires and discussions. Thanks also to the Reviewers for pertinent comments and questions.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

David Nixon

David Nixon is an Anglican priest who has worked in parishes, university chaplaincy, and theological education. He is currently Rector of St Thomas Exeter, in the County of Devon, UK. He is an honorary Senior Research Fellow in the University of Exeter, and his recent work includes a theological reflection What Does God Think About Brexit?