Malankara Orthodox Monastic Representatives Conclude Visit, Deepening Ties with Russian Orthodox Church

DECR – OCP News Service – 06/02/2024

Moscow – Russia: With the blessing of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, two Malankara Orthodox nuns embark on a unique two-month journey to explore the rich tapestry of Russian monasticism.

From November 2023 to January 2024, Sister (Abbess) Dina and Sister Sheba of the Mother of God of Bethlehem Convent in Ernakulam, India, embarked on a transformative journey to the Holy Vvedensky Tolga Convent in Yaroslavl, Russia. This cultural and spiritual exchange, organized by the Working Group on Russia-India Church Relations, offered the nuns firsthand experience of Russian monastic life.

Warmly welcomed by Abbess Varvara of the Tolga Convent, the Indian nuns participated in daily services, engaged in monastic obediences, and interacted with the sisterhood, gaining a deep understanding of Russian monastic traditions. Their journey extended beyond the convent walls, encompassing visits to historical churches and monasteries in Yaroslavl, Rybinsk, Rostov the Great, and Pereslavl-Zalessky, with the blessings of Metropolitan Vadim.

Seeking inspiration for their own social service initiatives, the nuns visited the St. Demetrius School and the Martha and Mary Convent of Mercy in Moscow. These visits provided valuable insights into the diverse social ministry undertaken by Russian Orthodox women. Sharing their unique perspective, the nuns even graced the Spas TV channel with an interview, offering audiences a glimpse into their Russian experience.

Concluding their enriching journey on the feast of Epiphany, the nuns were received by Abbess Juliania of the Conception Stavropegic Convent. This final meeting marked the culmination of a transformative exchange, fostering deeper understanding and collaboration between the Russian and Malankara Orthodox Churches.

Malankara Orthodox Monastic Delegation Commenced Russian Visit

Malankara Orthodox Church Monastic Delegation Featured on Russian State TV

Source:

OCP News Service and DECR