Archbishop of Medan tests positive for Covid-19

The prelate is in isolation but in good conditions. The vicar general and two other Capuchin friars were also positive. Episcopal staff are under observation.

Medan (AsiaNews) - The Archbishop of Medan, his vicar general and two other Capuchin religious in the area have tested positive for coronavirus. The prelate, explains the archdiocese spokesman, "is in good condition. He is able to shower and eat without external help. All the necessary safety procedures have been activated".

In addition to Msgr. Kornelius Sipayung ofm, Fr. Michael Manurung, Fr. Borta Rumapea and Fr. Jody Turnip, all of the Franciscan family are also positive. A total of 15 people who live or work permanently in the bishops’ residence have all been tested and are all in voluntary isolation.

To ensure the regular activities in the Archdiocese, Msgr. Sipayung "extended his duties" to Fr. Benyamin AC Purba ofm: the religious has the task of managing the situation until the restoration of normalcy.

The same Fr. Purba invited all those who had had contact with the Archbishop to go to the health centers in their area, to dispel any possible doubt of contagion. In particular, the religious invited the faithful from the areas of Brastagi and Pematang Siantar (visited by the prelate in early July) to carry out the tests against Covid-19.