CCSL COVID-19 Response Project

The Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL) was organized in 1924, existing first as a forum for fellowship for the mainline Protestant Churches. Today they are a communion of 18 Protestant Churches existing to corporately address the issues facing contemporary society from a united Christian perspective.

Sierra Leone has taken significant precautionary measures to prevent and slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the number of patients in Sierra Leone diagnosed with the virus is low, the neighboring countries to the north and south have seen recent increases in confirmed diagnoses. The Council of Churches in Sierra Leone will join with government offices and other organizations in the country to promote public health awareness to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

In order to do so, the CCSL has started their response in areas closest to the borders of neighboring countries. The Council is providing training for all church leadership and pastors on what is known about the virus, dispelling myths about the virus, and emphasizing the importance of handwashing and cleaning surfaces. Additionally, the CCSL is providing soap and portable washing stations for communities where there is a congregation present.

Currently under government instruction, all churches have cancelled worship gatherings at this time. Understanding there are many regular activities outside of worship where people gather in groups, the church leadership have been creating and posting informational signs as well to share about the importance of social distancing. In order to fulfill this public health awareness project, the CCSL is raising approximately $5,000 to provide and transport hygiene materials, signs, and continue providing information to families across Sierra Leone.