The First Hierarch Visits Lesna Convent in France

The First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus, visited Lesna Convent in France on 20 May, arriving in time for all-night vigil on the eve of Mid-Pentecost. Vladyka Metropolitan was accompanied by Bishop Michael of Boston, Protodeacon Victor Lokhmatov and Reader Nicholas Olhovsky. Vladyka Laurus often visited Lesna Convent, but this visit was his first as First Hierarch.

On the day of Mid-Pentecost, Vladyka Metropolitan met with retired Archbishop Seraphim (Dulgoff), and also spoke with the Convent clergy, with Abbess Makrina and several of the Convent’s sisters. That evening, during all-night vigil on the eve of the Translation of the Relics of St. Nicholas, the First Hierarch emerged for the polyeleos, and on the feast day itself celebrated divine liturgy. Vladyka Laurus gave a sermon on St. Nicholas, on his mercy and kindness, and on the never-ending stream of miracles occurring through the intercession of this great saint. Vladyka Metropolitan called upon everyone to appeal to St. Nicholas more often, especially in our complicated and burdensome times. After the trapeze feast, Vladyka Laurus thanked Mother Abbess and the nuns for their hospitality and asked for everyone’s prayers. After a brief respite, Vladyka and his fellow travelers departed for Munich.