GOC hierarch: Diseases cannot be transmitted in the Church
Metropolitan Joel of Edessa, Pella and Almopia. Photo: video screenshot of the Youtube channel pella.news.gr
On September 3, 2020, on the day of the transfer of the relics of St. Nektarios of Aegins, the hierarch of Orthodox Church of Greece, Metropolitan Joel of Edessa, addressed the believers in a sermon, Romfea reports.
In his homily, His Eminence Metropolitan Joel stressed that the relics of saints, icons and vestments of saints have the grace of God, therefore they do not transmit any diseases.
Metropolitan Joel referred to the sacrament of the Eucharist, explaining that when trans-substantiation of the Holy Gifts takes place, no illness can approach.
“There is health in the temple, not disease. You can get the virus outside, not inside the church,” said the Metropolitan.
As reported by the UOJ, the head of the Church of Crete urged believers not to wear masks inside temples.
Read also
Abp. Mark Visits Pennsylvania Parish for Lenten Services
Abp. Mark’s visit strengthened Coal Region faithful during their Lenten journey.
Metr. Saba Appeals for Lebanon Relief Donations
Metr. Saba calls for urgent donations to aid displaced families in Lebanon.
New Orthodox Parish School Set to Open in Pennsylvania
"The School has been in the prayers of St. John Chrysostom Orthodox Church since the community's founding in 1992," a press release states. "Through God, all things are possible!"
Ancient Monastic Complex Found in Egypt
A newly discovered Egyptian site highlights the scale and sophistication of early monastic life.
Ukrainian Protodeacon Alleges False Prosecutions of Priests
Protodeacon Vadim Novinsky said that the vast majority of criminal cases opened against Ukrainian Orthodox Church clergy are fabricated, with the government threatening them to accept plea deals.
Abp. Mark Visits Holy Apostles Parish for Lenten Weekend
Abp. Mark’s visit blended worship, teaching, and encouragement during the Lenten journey.