Coronavirus: Ecumenical Patriarch
expresses solidarity to Pope, Italian President
 |
| Pope Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople (Vatican Media) |
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople expresses
his solidarity for the Italian people hit by the pandemic.
By Robin Gomes
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople
has sent separate messages to Pope Francis and Italian President, Sergio
Mattarella. In it, he expresses his solidarity with the nation that is
grappling with the pandemic.
Italy is the hardest hit. Saturday’s death toll soared to
793, the highest in a single day. The coronavirus has now infected a total
of nearly 60,000 people and claimed 5,476 up to Sunday. The infection and
death rate dropped slightly on Sunday, bringing some relief. The number of
persons currently infected stands at 46,638. Northern Italy is the worst
affected.
Spirit of sacrifice
In his messages, the spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox
Christians commends the spirit of sacrifice and courage that Italy’s healthcare
workers are demonstrating. He also expresses his gratitude for the enormous
efforts of doctors and nurses in assisting the sick.
At the same time, Patriarch Bartholomew expresses his
closeness to the families of the those who have lost the battle against the
virus. In addition, he pledges that "during Holy Lent, he will constantly
pray to the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, for the healing of the sick, eternal
repose for those who died and comfort for their relatives”.
Message to the Orthodox faithful
Earlier, in a message to the Orthodox faithful, Patriarch
Bartholomew called for suspending church liturgies and services until the end
of March. The 80-year-old Patriarch asked the faithful to respect the
indications of authorities, beginning with staying at home. He also thanked
those who are fighting the pandemic, especially the healthcare personnel. The
Patriarch said he was joining others in praying so that science may win this
war against the virus.
The Eastern Orthodox Church is not in communion with the
Catholic Church. It is the second-largest Christian Church, with approximately
260 million members worldwide.
As the “first among equals” among all the bishops of the Eastern
Orthodox Church, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, based in Istanbul,
Turkey, is regarded as the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians
globally.
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