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.

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