Dear fathers, brothers and sisters! The chancery of the Temporary Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA asks you to take into account the recommendations and blessing of Bishop Matthew of Sourozh, with which he addressed his flock.
Beloved in Christ fathers, brothers and sisters!
In the Diocese of Sourozh of the Russian Orthodox Church, as throughout the world, the continuing spread of the illness associated with coronavirus infection is viewed with deep concern. In Great Britain and Ireland, the clergy and parishioners of the diocese are praying for the healing of the sick and for the speediest end to the epidemic.
In connection with the spread of the disease, I call on you to observe all the recommendations and orders of the authorities and to strictly follow the relevant directives aimed at preventing the spread of the coronavirus.
In view of the situation, the use of disposable paper towels and disposable cups for the drink after Holy Communion and at meals after services is blessed in the churches of the Diocese of Sourozh.
Kissing the priest’s hand when receiving a blessing is not obligatory.
In the parishes of the diocese, general confession is temporarily recommended, except in cases of special need and by prior arrangement with the priest.
I call on all the children of the Diocese of Sourozh to intensify their prayer for the end of the illness.
+MATTHEW, Bishop of Sourozh, Temporary Administrator
of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada