A security guard at Georgian Patriarchate is infected with coronavirus, the head of the press service of the Patriarchate, Archpriest Andria Jagmaidze has confirmed, as georgiatoday.ge reports.
Tamaz Khutsishvili, the governor of the village of Khovle, says the man was hospitalized on April 12 with suspicious symptoms.
In addition, Archpriest Jagmaidze spoke about the hospitalized clergyman of the Georgian Orthodox Church, who has tested positive for COVID-19.
“The service, which was attended by a clergyman infected with coronavirus, was attended by other clergymen as well,” he noted. Reportedly, all the persons in contact with the infected clergyman will be quarantined.
It is reminded that the Patriarchate of Georgia has decided not to close the churches despite the cononavirus pandemic.
Actually, Patriarch Ilia of Georgia stated a few days ago that Spiritual nourishment is just as important and necessary for believers as food.
“Therefore, it is not possible to close the doors of the Church and it will be open to those who wish to come and receive spiritual strength.”
The Patriarch had noted that worship services were an integral part of priesthood duties and of paramount importance to the entire nation.
“Given the current situation, I would like to address you, our spiritual children, and give you the following advice: follow the appropriate instructions; observe the established distance while near to other people, including in the temple or the yard of the temple; during the divine liturgy (and other services), only clergymen should remain in the church, while a limited number of parishioners are allowed to join them in large cathedrals, though it is generally recommended that parishioners remain in the yard of the church. Additional advice will be given to the clergy and temple servants, given the specific circumstances,” he said.
“Some believers who are at risk due to age or weaknesses, as well as those who are particularly cautious about contracting the virus, should stay at home,” Patriarch of Georgia said.
