The Holy Community of Mount Athos, the venerable semi-autonomous Orthodox monastic community in northern Greece, has circulated a text in answer to speculation and claims, often expressed in a blasphemous manner, regarding the sacrament of the Holy Communion.
Among others, the statement notes that “…the Holy Communion is a source of blessing, salvation, hope, light and partaking in the Life of the Lord, and in no instance the cause of transmission of infectious diseases or any other malady.”
The statement also clarifies that the Holy Community is not negative towards precautions against the coronavirus, and respects the efforts of state authorities, distinguished scientists and staff-members at healthcare structures to combat the pandemic.