Georgian Orthodox Church replies to criticism around the rule of Holy Communion

By Khatia Bzhalava

Thursday, March 26

The Georgian Church finds the media’s criticism regarding the Eucharist rules unpleasant.

“Refusal of drinking wine from a shared chalice is the refusal of Christ.”

The Georgian Orthodox Church clarifies that there will be no further changes in the rule of communion, and points out that the blame, which is put on them is unreasonable since they try to keep safety measurements defined by the government and NCDC as much as the inner church policy allows them to.

“As we know, the current situation might deteriorate due to Coronavirus. It seems that some media outlets are artificially preparing public opinion, in order to blame the Church for possible problems that may appear in future,” stated the Church.

The Church urges the congregation to stay home in case they are ill. The statement stressed that more standing spots are being marked to keep the two- meters distance between the worshipers inside temples and 1.5 meters in the church yards. Also, to avoid the crowds at the liturgy and anointing, confessors are allowed to spread services over a week. The Georgian Church also recommends the temples (especially small ones) to conduct services outside.

“The reason why there is a huge emphasis on the arrival of worshippers at the churches once a week is incomprehensible for us, whilst there are much more people in the public transport, pharmacy and grocery stores. It is unjustifiable and an offense to God to prohibit the attendance of the liturgy for people to whom it is crucial to be there.

They especially oppose the centuries-old rite of communion, while the majority of them do not have enough knowledge or belief about the spiritual essence of this mystery.

Drinking wine from a shared chalice is a superior confirmation of unity and affection between parishioners and Jesus and its refusal is the refusal of Christ.

We want to tell everyone who thinks there is a danger of being infected in a church, to stay home and in case they request a sacramental confession, we will pay visits to their houses. We call upon everybody to pray, realize their sins and repent them sincerely,” reads the statement.