Appeal of Christian Health Networks Regarding Covid-19 Vaccines with the Participation of the Patriarchal Network

Appeal of Christian Health Networks Regarding Covid-19 Vaccines
with the Participation of the Patriarchal Network

With the approval and the blessings of this All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Coordinator of the Patriarchal Network, Fr. Stavros Kofinas, co-signed the “Appeal of Christian health networks for global equity and solidarity in access to Covid-19 vaccines”. This “Appeal” is the result from discussions of the Forum of the Christian Health Care Providers of the WCC, which includes approximately 100 participants from all over the world. The “Appeal” expresses gratitude for the significant advancement in which the safe vaccines were developed, which will hopefully contain the virus and end the pandemic. It also declares the need for a fare distribution of these vaccines, particularly to poor countries, ethnic minorities and individuals of poor income.     

The Patriarchal Network was asked to take part in this Global Forum at the invitation of Dr. Mwai Mokaka, Programme Executive for Health and Healing at the World Council of Churches (WCC). It should be noted that Dr. Mokaka greeted the 6^th Session of the “Consultation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate regarding the Pandemic” that dealt with “Supporting and working with the Medical and Healthcare Professionals during the Pandemic”.

It should also be noted that the WCC included the Patriarchal Network’s “Prayer during pandemic illness (of the new Coronavirus that has fallen upon us)” in its book “Voices of Lament, Hope, and Courage”, designed as a resource for use in prayer groups, congregational services, personal prayer, and in the pastoral accompaniment of those directly affected in different ways by the pandemic.

Network of the Ecumenical Patriarchate
for Pastoral Health Care
April 9, 2021

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