COVID-19 infects 43 Catholic priests

The number of Catholic priests infected with COVID-19 climbed to 43, according to the Archdiocese of Jaro.

33 of the infected priests are from the Archdiocese, which covers the Catholic church in the city and province of Iloilo, while 10 were religious priests from other religious congregations, Fr. Angelo Colada director of Archdiocese of Jaro Social Communication, told Radyo Pilipinas Iloilo.

As of September 17, Fr. Colada reported that 28 priests have already recovered while seven remain as active cases.

Meanwhile, eight priests have succumbed to COVID-19

“Daw halos kada bulan nga gakapatay nga pari bangud sa COVID-19 ilabi na kay kalabanan sa ila parte na sang vulnerable sector kag elders na,” he said.

As part of their protocol, Fr. Colada said parishes and churches which recorded at least one positive priest were immediately placed on lockdown to pave way for disinfection.

He also encouraged parish priests to have themselves vaccinated to prevent severe and critical Covid-19.

While religious gatherings are allowed in Iloilo City and Iloilo province at a limited capacity he reminded the faithful to practice health protocols inside the church.

Fr. Colada also appealed to the faithful to pray for priests who continue their services amid the threats of COVID-19.

For those who wish to attend the masses but are unable to do so, Fr. Colada said the public can still participate at live masses aired at the official Facebook page of Archdiocese of Jaro. (ERS)