TORONTO – The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada declared that it “honors and extends its gratitude to all of the scientists, researchers, and medical and public health professionals who are working tirelessly and sacrificing so much so that the COVID-19 virus can be defeated.”

In particular, the Archdiocese paid tribute to the many Greek and Cypriot-Canadian scientists and health care workers who are developing innovative solutions to battle the pandemic and who are selflessly serving patients with love and devotion.

For example, Drs. Eleftherios Diamandis and Ioannis Prassas from the University of Toronto and Mount Sinai Hospital have developed a new, saliva-based test for the COVID-19 viruswhose precision and ease of use could make it a ‘game changer’ in combating the pandemic.

In a public statement it was noted:

“The scientific resourcefulness and medical ingenuity of Drs. Diamandis and Prassas is to be recognized and applauded as efforts to help society return to a sense of normalcy.

“The Archdiocese also commends Greek-Canadian doctors, nurses, and health care staff and workers who continue to serve communities from coast to coast to coast more than one year after the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each of them are examples of Christian agape following in the footsteps of the many Holy Unmercenary Saints of the Church who served and healed people in need without concern for personal gain.

“As we approach Holy Week and the salvific joy of the Resurrection, we hope and pray that the Light of Christ’s Resurrection illumines all scientists and health care workers and brings them comfort and support as they continue in their service to humanity.”