The evolution of pastoral care in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church of South Africa post COVID-19

Abstract

This study investigates how South Africa's Seventh-day Adventist pastoral ministry responded to the COVID-19 pandemic's unprecedented challenges. The study focused on the Southern Africa Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (SAU), and traced the evolution of pastoral care over time, analysed the pandemic’s disruptions and challenges, and highlighted the creative ways pastors responded, especially through the use of digital platforms and heightened awareness of mental health. The study investigates the swift transition from conventional, face-to face ministry to digital and hybrid models of worship, care, and community involvement through qualitative interviews with pastors in both rural and urban settings. Study findings revealed that technology has made it possible for people to connect spiritually through new channels like WhatsApp devotionals, live-streamed sermons, and virtual small groups, but it has also revealed significant disparities in access to digital infrastructure. Low-tech alternatives were frequently used by pastors in under-resourced areas, illustrating the growing digital divide in ministry experiences. In addition to technological adaptation, the study found that pastors are becoming more willing to incorporate emotional support and mental health awareness into their theological framework. This change reflects a trend towards more psychospiritual, holistic care models that address the intricate realities of trauma, grief, and loneliness. According to the study, one characteristic of effective ministry during the crisis was the ability to be flexible while remaining faithful. In the end, the results add to more general discussions about how religious communities can adapt to the spiritual and emotional demands of a changing world while maintaining their theological foundation.