With masks and gloves, Ukraine’s priests return to duties

IVANO-FRANKIVSK, Ukraine (AP) — The Rev. Yaroslav Rokhman is hard to recognize as a priest when he visits terminally ill patients at a Ukrainian care center. He wears a white biohazard suit, a face shield and a blue mask over his mouth and nose. The clergyman in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is pleased just to be performing one of a priest’s most heartfelt duties again. As the coronavirus pandemic’s grip slowly recedes in Ukraine, priests received clearance on May 22 to resume religious services and to visit the sick and bereaved. Rokhman’s words and presence are still bringing comfort to the dying despite his protective gear.