UOC dispatches 12,500 PCR-tests for COVID-19 diagnosis
Representatives of the UOC handed over coronavirus tests to medical institutions in Kiev. Photo: screenshot of the video from the 1Kozak YouTube channel
On April 6, 2020, representatives of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church handed over 12,500 PCR tests to detect the COVID-19 virus to the Public Health Center and Kiev Laboratory Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, the First Cossack channel reports.
“These are not ordinary rapid tests but laboratory ones, which make it possible to diagnose the disease with almost 100% probability,” said Bishop Victor (Kotsaba) of Baryshevka, chief of staff of the Kiev Metropolis of the UOC. “In addition, these days, with the blessing of the UOC Primate His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry, the tests, bought by the Holy Protection Foundation, have been transferred to all regional centers of Ukraine.”
The UOC hierarch noted that from the first day when the coronavirus infection was detected in Ukraine, all 53 eparchies joined the fight against the spread of the disease.
“Our dioceses, parishes, and monasteries do as much as they can to contribute to the humanitarian and social activities being so necessary today. This is our common tribulation which means that together, not dividing each other by faith or by any national signs and political preferences, we should fight for the comeback of quiet, peaceful and healthy times to our homeland," he added.
Representatives of medical institutions in Kiev expressed their gratitude to the Church for the tests delivered, which will quickly detect cases of coronavirus and minimize the risks of its spread.
Recall that the Ukrainian Orthodox Church passed 100,000 tests for COVID-19 diagnosis, purchased by Vadim Novinsky’s Charitable Foundation in honor of the Intercession of the Mother of God, to all regions of Ukraine. The distribution of the equipment and protective means among the regions was organized by the Ministry of Health and the Coronavirus Epidemic Headquarters at the Office of President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky.
Read also
Abp. Mark of Philadelphia Celebrates 21st Anniversary
On the 21st anniversary of his 2004 consecration in Damascus, Archbishop Mark—former Antiochian Bishop of Toledo, now OCA Archbishop of Philadelphia—leads a revitalized diocese marked by restored youth camps and new media outreach, with prayers of “Eis polla eti despota!” ringing out for many more years.
Over $1.3 Million Raised: Antiochian Women Honor Priests’ Widows
Antiochian Women press on with Metropolitan Saba’s blessing to grow a $3–5 million endowment, ensuring no widowed clergy wife ever walks alone.
Abp. Alexei Leads First Southeast Deanery Conference
Archbishop Alexei led Sitka’s radiant patronal feast of the Archangel Michael and the inaugural Southeast Deanery Conference, uniting clergy, Tlingit faithful, and youth in prayer, workshops, and joyful celebration of Alaska’s living Orthodox heritage.
Hundreds of Children Baptized in Georgia’s 72nd Mass Ceremony
Patriarch Ilia continues tradition aimed at strengthening faith and supporting family life, adding 700 infants as his own godchildren.
Abp. Elpidophoros Meets with Amb. Guilfoyle in Greece
First official visit highlights hope of Halki Seminary reopening, Nicaea anniversary celebrations, and strengthening U.S.-Greek religious and diplomatic ties.
BREAKING: Czech Ministry of Culture Launches Administrative Proceedings Against Orthodox Church in the Czech Lands
The outcome, if unfavorable, could strip the Church of key legal rights and significantly impact its future operations.