News from Argentina

In December 2002, the Dean of the South American Diocese, Deputy Rector of the Resurrection Cathedral in Buenos Aires, Protopriest Vladimir Skalon and the Rector of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Buenos Aires, Protopriest Valentin Iwasjewicz, attended a Christmas and New Year’s reception held by the President of the Republic of Argentina, Eduardo Duhalde. The President was greeted by the Diplomatic Corps and by representatives of religious groups. The reception was held in the so-called White Hall of the State Palace of Casa Rosada. The Minister of International Affairs and Religious Organizations of Argentina and its Secretary were also present.

Following a brief but heavy illness, the long-time activist of Resurrection Cathedral in Buenos Aires, the Parish Council Secretary and Assistant Warden, and member of the Russian Orthodox Congregation in Argentina Administration, Oleg Antonovich Mikhailovsky, died on 30 December 2002. A pannikhida was served on the eve of the funeral in the Cathedral by Protopriest Fr. Vladimir Skalon and Priest Alejandro Iwasjewicz, and the funeral was conducted by Fr. Vladimir along with Deacon Nikolai Radysh.

The capital renovation of Resurrection Cathedral in Buenos Aires is continuing through the efforts of its parishioners. The choir-loft and the chapel of St. Barbara the Great Martyr were painted, along with the façade and the cupolas and crosses. The parishioners hope to complete the interior restoration of the Cathedral soon.