Acting Patriarchal Exarch of Africa Visited Malankara and Coptic Orthodox Churches During South Africa Visit

DECR – OCP News Service – 16/01/2024

Moscow and Johannesburg: On January 12, 2024, Bishop Constantine of Zaraisk, Acting Patriarchal Exarch of Africa, undertook a significant visit to the Republic of South Africa, fostering inter-church relations and goodwill. The visit included encounters with the Malankara Orthodox Church and the Coptic Orthodox Church, marking moments of shared history and cooperation.

In Johannesburg, Bishop Constantine visited the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle of the Malankara Orthodox Church, part of the Diocese of Europe and Africa under the leadership of Metropolitan Abraham Stephanos. Welcomed warmly by Father Stanley James, the church’s rector, Bishop Constantine admired the temple’s decor, adorned with reproductions of Russian icons that have gained popularity among Indian believers. In commemoration of the visit, Bishop Constantine presented Father Stanley with an icon of the Holy Blessed Matrona of Moscow.

Continuing his visits, Bishop Constantine paid a visit to the temple dedicated to St. Apostle Mark of the Coptic Church. Meeting with Metropolitan Anthony Markos of South and West Africa, the Acting Patriarchal Exarch expressed gratitude for the long-standing cooperation and support. Metropolitan Anthony, an esteemed figure in the Coptic Church, has dedicated over fifty years to missionary and educational activities across Africa. Notably, his efforts led to the establishment of the first Coptic Church parishes in South Africa three decades ago. The Coptic Church’s generosity was acknowledged, particularly the provision of a church for the Russian-speaking community in Windhoek, Namibia, in 2023.

Bishop Constantine conveyed fraternal appreciation and well wishes to Metropolitan Anthony, who celebrates his 87th birthday this year. As a symbolic gesture, he presented an icon of St. Andrei Rublev as a token of respect and gratitude.

Accompanying Bishop Constantine on his pastoral visit is Hieromonk Stefan (Igumnov), Secretary for Inter-Christian Relations at the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, along with Archpriest Daniil Lugovoy, the rector of the Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh in Johannesburg, and Assistant Bishop Vladislav Dendyuk.

Source:

OCP News Service