His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry of Kiev and All Ukraine blessed all dioceses of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to participate in activities to counteract the spread of the coronavirus infection COVID-19. The corresponding circular letter was sent by the Chancellery of the Kiev Metropolis to all the diocesan bishops, reports the Information and Enlightenment Department of the UOC.
In particular, the document states that “it is extremely important to provide financial assistance to medical institutions located within the diocese entrusted to you that are already accepting or preparing to receive patients diagnosed with coronavirus.”
The priority for their participation in anti-epidemic measures is defined as “the acquisition and free distribution of medical masks”, as well as “in those dioceses with production capabilities, it is necessary to organize the sewing of medical masks”.
“For the distribution of medical masks, especially among older people, as well as for the delivery of other necessities, it is considered advisable to encourage volunteers from among active parishioners of younger age. The organization of such a volunteer movement should be managed by diocesan youth departments and social service departments,” the letter states.