Diocesan Meeting, St. Petersburg

Church events

By the mercy of God, Clergy and laity of the Southern Russian Diocese gathered on the 11-12 of June 2010 in St. Petersburg.

In attendance were: Rt. Rev. Bishop Victor of Paris and Western Europe, Archpriest Vechesalav Lebedev, Fr. George Peskichev, Hieromonk Gerasim (Shironosov), Priest Alexander Davidov, Priest Sergei Masnev, Hieromonk Eugene (Pampura), Hieromonk Arseni (Kamorov), Hierodeacon Seraphim (Chagochkin), Subdeacon Igor Amfriov, Nun Michaila (Sokolenko), and some half-score of laypersons representing various missions and parishes. Regrettably not all Clergy were able to attend, however it is of important note that this was not due to any strife or conflict but rather to duty in their individual service and obligations.

Before the meetings, at 6 o'clock Bishop Victor served Liturgy, during which he received into the ROCOR Hieromonk Arseni (Kamorov), through Hirotisia (laying on of hands). Fr. Arseni previously was with the group of Met. Tichon (Kiselev).

Opening the discussions, Bishop Victor created a portrait of the current situation of the Southern Russian Diocese. He explained that notwithstanding the generally complicated succession of various splits and loss of members in the diocese early on, that the situation is currently becoming more stable. He commented that while it would perhaps be desirable to have some organizational questions answered more expediently - that the process is coming along. As to growth in the diocese, he pointed out that there are new Clergy and Parishes coming to us. After his opening comments, Vladika heard reports from Rectors and representatives of the various Parishes and Missions. He likewise offered his suggestions on some of the questions put forward.

The goal of the meetings was not to bring forward some monumental resolution, rather to discuss everyday questions arising in Church life. Glory to God, this was the result of the meeting. All the discusssions were carried out in the spirit of brotherly love and onemindedness. We will attempt to further strengthen our oneness and our Holy Church. Glory to God for all things!