Impact on Temple Missions and Roles in the COVID-19 Situation: A Case Study of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

The purpose of this research article was to study impacts on missions and the roles of temples in the COVID-19 situation of the Sangha, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Mixed methods research was designed. Quantitative research using survey research method was conducted. Data were collected by using online questionnaires through google form tool from monks of 450 temples in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. For qualitative research, in-depth interview and online participatory observation were collected during April - May 2020. Results indicated that impacts on the mission of the Sangha in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province were shown (1) in respect of ceremonies and rituals temples cannot perform monastic religious and ceremonies under the anti-COVID-19 social distancing policy such as chanting, praying, receive food offerings. For related religion ceremonies such as ordination, weddings, death and general merit making that aiming for the spiritual support of Buddhists, cannot be carried out. (2) For impact on the administration of monastic affairs, online meeting was used for the administration and management. (3) Roles of the measure in the COVID-19 situation, the temple and the supreme rulers of the Sangha have implemented a policy to help society through setting up a restaurant during difficult times, distribute items, consumer goods, food, water and subsistence. At the national level, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province Sangha distributed items to facilitate people. (4) Missionary mission by communicating patience, beliefs and principles for self-tolerance via online system which consisted of Facebook, YouTube, Zoom to stay at home to prevent COVID-19 with government agencies for achieving holistic results in managing COVID-19 prevention.