Because of the threat of avian influenza pigeons, which issued to Patriarch Alexy Annunciation, were quarantined

[Back to Russia. This article is from 2006, but I found it very interesting, considering the dead pigeons we are finding today.....]

07 Apr 2006, 13:16

Moscow. April 7. Interfax - Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II on Friday on the occasion of the Annunciation, by tradition, has issued from the porch of the Annunciation Cathedral Kremlin doves, symbolizing the Holy Spirit.

With regard to the risk of bird flu this year, all the birds are ready for this ancient ceremony, held in a special quarantine, the site of the Moscow Patriarchate.

After prayers in the cathedral Alexy II congratulated Orthodox believers of today's holiday.

"Feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary the midst of Lent - is a cheerful and bright beam, indicating that we are not orphans, that for all of us to be before the throne of God Queen of Heaven," - said предстоятель.