sending warm wishes to everyone who celebrates Easter, Passover and Ramadan, the UN Secretary-General noted that these holidays are the moments of unity: "This is the time when families gather together. Time of hugs and handshakes, a time of unity of the human spirit. But this time, it's not like always."
"Now we are all trying to find their way in a strange, surreal world, said Antonio Guterres. World silent streets. World tightly closed storefronts. The world is empty temples. And finally, the world of anxiety".
In a special address to religious leaders of all faiths, the UN chief urged them to join forces in the name of peace and focus on "our common battle against COVID-19".
the world health organization (who) emphasize that because religious leaders are people of respect and confidence, they can play a crucial role in curbing the pandemic coronavirus. On the eve of three religious holidays, the Organization has produced detailed practical guidance on how to celebrate the holidays without putting yourself and others at risk of Contracting coronavirus.
In regard to the gathering of people in churches, synagogues and mosques, the experts are encouraged to follow the recommendations of national authorities, but even if they are allowed, to observe strict hygiene measures: always stick to each other at a distance of not less than one meter, not to touch others, to hug and to kiss each other and not to venerate the Holy places.
now, to ensure the safety of the congregation is impossible, the religious service you need to cancel or find a way to hold them remotely, it is recommended to the who.
And the main thing – not to lose the spirit of these special celebrations. "Let us draw spiritual strength in the very essence of these sacred events, using them as an opportunity for reflection, memories and updates - urged UN Secretary-General. In our meditation let's keep a special place for thoughts about the heroic health care workers who are at the forefront of the fight against this terrible virus, and all those who support life in our cities and towns". He also asked not to forget the people in war zones, refugee camps and slums – all of those who are virtually defenseless against the virus.
"let us again let us celebrate faith in each other and we draw strength from the goodness that is growing in hard times, when people of different faiths and different moral traditions are United in caring about each other," concluded antónio Guterres.
