Anti-COVID-19 Vaccine Narratives Among African and North American Neo-Pentecostals (Part 1): Evidence, Causes and Lessons

The gap in the worldview of spiritual leaders regarding public health and safety became apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic. It engendered narratives and health behaviors that led to the deaths of many. This interdisciplinary study examines the relationship between religious beliefs, practices, and health behavior. In two parts, this empirical research, through a literature review, secondary data analysis, and available narratives in academic and media spaces, deconstructs the activities of some African and North American Neo-Pentecostals during the pandemic. Part 1, presented here, provides evidence of the narratives and discusses the causes of misinformation and hesitancy. Part 2 addressed the public health implications, the ideal theological response, leadership gaps, and lessons learned. Three fundamental points are evident in both parts. The first is a poor "theology of medicine" in health crises. The second is the poor leadership approach to crisis management. The third is the long-term tension and a lack of synergy between health professionals, health policymakers, and spiritual leaders. The outcome of Part 1 revealed that the causes of anti-vaccination narratives are rooted in theological, social, and economic factors. Part 1 concludes with a summary of the lessons and an overview of what to expect in Part 2 of the exercise.