byGregory L. Tracy Pilot Staff
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The latest statistics from the Archdiocese of Boston indicate that two additional retired priests have tested positive for the coronavirus in the last week.
According to the new figures, provided April 22 by the archdiocese's Chief Health Care Ethicist MC Sullivan, a total of 15 retired priests have now tested positive for COVID-19, up from 13 the week prior. Of those, three are considered recovered, and 11 remain ill. One senior priest, 90-year-old Father George R. Flynn, died April 10 after a lengthy illness that predated his coronavirus diagnosis.
The number of cases among active priests remains the same as the previous week, with five total having tested positive, two of whom have recovered.
In the interest of confidentiality, the archdiocese does not release the names of the priests who have tested positive for COVID-19. However, in numerous public appearances since mid-April, Cardinal Seán P. O'Malley has urged prayers for retired Auxiliary Bishop Emilio S. Allue, whom the cardinal has said remains seriously ill with the coronavirus.