Acting Patriarchal Exarch of Africa Visits South African Republic

DECR – OCP News Service – 13/01/2024

Moscow and Johannesburg: On January 11,2024, Bishop Konstantin of Zaraisk, Acting Patriarchal Exarch of Africa, began a pastoral visit to South Africa. He was accompanied by Hieromonk Stefan (Igumnov), DECR Secretary for Inter-Christian Relations, with the blessing of Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, chairman of the Moscow Patriarchate’s Department for External Church Relations (DECR).

Bishop Konstantin’s visit is aimed at strengthening ties between the Russian Orthodox Church and the people of South Africa. He will visit parishes of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa in South Africa, conduct divine services, and meet with clergy and lay people.

Upon arrival, Bishop Konstantin visited the Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh in Johannesburg and met with the rector, Archpriest Daniil Lugovoy.

On January 12, 2024 Bishop Konstantin met with I.I. Rogachev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to South Africa. They discussed the activities of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa in South Africa and the interests of Russian compatriots living in the country.

A reception was given in honor of Bishop Konstantin by the Russian Ambassador and his wife. The event was also attended by Hieromonk Stefan (Igumnov), Archpriest Daniil Lugovoy, and Assistant Bishop Konstantin Vladislav Dendyuk.

Bishop Konstantin’s visit to South Africa is a sign of the growing ties between the Russian Orthodox Church and the continent of Africa. The Church has been active in Africa for many years, providing humanitarian aid and supporting the development of local communities. Bishop Konstantin’s visit is an opportunity to further strengthen these ties and to show the support of the Russian Orthodox Church for the people of Africa.

Source:

OCP News Service