ROC Synod instructs churches and monasteries over coronavirus spread
The Holy Synod recommended the application of the instruction in the dioceses of the ROC where there are cases of coronavirus. Illustrative photo: avatars.mds.yandex.net
The Holy Synod of the ROC approved " Instructions to rectors of parishes and monasteries’ town churches, abbots and abbesses of the monasteries of the Russian Orthodox Church over the threat of spreading coronavirus infection" (the Holy Synod decision of 17 March 2020 (Minutes No. 30) of March 17, 2020), reports Patriarchia.ru.
Members of the Holy Synod discussed and approved the document by remote communication, recommending the application of instructions "with the blessing of diocesan bishops in those dioceses where there are cases of the coronavirus infection and the threat of its spread".
The document contains recommendations previously approved for churches and monasteries of the Moscow diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church.
The main measures include wiping the spoon after each partaker with a handkerchief impregnated with spirits, wiping the Gospel and the icon (the Cross) after each kissing with a disinfectant liquid, offering “zapivka” only individually, separately to each partaker in a disposable ware, using disposable hygienic gloves in distributing antidoron, recommending partakers to refrain from kissing the Cup after Communion, using a wadding stick (instead of a brush) and a tissue (instead of a sponge) which then should be burnt for Anointment and Chrismation, etc.
Earlier, the ROC has reported that priests will visit patients with coronavirus at home.
Read also
OCU chaplain: A soldier should not feel guilty for killing enemies
According to a cleric of the OCU, the word “killing” should not even be used in this context.
AFU servicewoman punished by “being sent to the frontline” for defending UOC
An OCU representative explained how commanders punish UOC believers who defend their Church.
UOC church seized after OCU's and UGCC's provocation at soldier's funeral
Supporters of the UGCC brought the body of a soldier into the church, pressuring a UOC priest to conduct the funeral according to the Greek Catholic rite in an Orthodox church.
UOC hierarch calls on the faithful to pray for the return of seized shrine
Metropolitan Theodosiy urged the faithful to communal and personal prayer to Archangel Michael.
Russian Orthodox Church Primate: Christ did not condemn death penalty
The Patriarch added that, although the Church does not welcome the death penalty, it has never condemned it if this punishment is carried out in accordance with the law.
Metropolitan Jonathan appeals sentence to Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has requested criminal case files from the Vinnytsia City Court for cassation review.