“Please stand by us doctors during these hard times, because people’s faith in you is very strong, often times stronger than in doctors.” – Amiran Gamkrelidze
Georgian immunologist and the Head of the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health, Amiran Gamkrelidze, addressed the members of the Synod via a video on Formula on March 16, asking for their support during the vaccination process and reminding them of the significance of their position and their influence on members of society.
“The Georgian Church is an organization with one of the highest authorities in the country. We all believe in our Church, and I want to give thanks for the position the Church, especially His Holiness and Beatitude, took, and the help they provided us with last year when the pandemic had just begun,” Gamkrelidze said. “Because of this, we survived with minimal loss. You all know how challenging the pre-Easter, Easter, and post-Easter periods were when the state of emergency was declared in the country, and the way the Church called upon people played a huge role in their compliance.
“I want to take advantage of the occasion and ask the Holy Synod and each high priest to remember their special role in this situation. During the last 200 years, vaccines and vaccinations have saved millions of lives. Vaccination is a scientifically proven method. The Church and science have always had a very synergic relationship. The Church always leans on scientifically proven facts, and the positive side of vaccinations has been scientifically proven and experienced by humankind.
“Please stand by us, the doctors, during these hard times, because people’s faith in you is very strong, oftentimes stronger than in doctors. We ask for special collaboration during the vaccination process. We are prepared for any meetings as always, and it is always an honor for us to work with the Church and be with you. I am sure we will achieve the desired outcome together,” said Gamkrelidze.
Archpriest Jagmaidze responded indirectly to the appeal on March 17.
By Barbare Melikidze
