In the Moscow Patriarchy hope that "soon" sanitary authorities will be allowed to open churches in the capital for the believers, told the TV channel "Russia 24" head of the Department for external Church relations (DECR) of the Moscow Patriarchate Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk.
Currently in Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and other regions of Russia, where the epidemiological situation is still complicated, the services performed by priests, and the congregation can only watch broadcasts of the services.
"As we know, the situation in the regions varies, but even in Moscow, where we are continuing to follow a policy of self-isolation, already a lot of cars on the streets, many people drive to the subway, has already opened the site, that is to say that the isolation regime fully continues, it is now impossible. And, of course, the faithful ask a fair question: when will be possible to visit the temple? – said Metropolitan Hilarion.
He expressed the hope that "soon" from sanitary authorities of Moscow will obtain permission at least, to open temples in the Liturgy a time for believers to come to Church, put candles, to pray, to submit notes and talk to a priest.
According to Metropolitan, the next step will be the opening of the temples for worship with the participation of the congregation.
"But, probably, will set certain standards: first, the distance between the believers, and secondly, that the total number of believers does not exceed a specific measure. Sanitary restrictions will not establish ecclesiastical authority and secular power", – said the Hierarch.
According to him, depending on the decisions that will be taken in each specific region, the Church authorities will determine the action to release from quarantine: in Moscow, these measures will define the Patriarch, in other regions of the diocesan hierarchs abroad, the heads of dioceses in those countries where they are.
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