The First Hierarch in Argentina

An Invitation from the Argentina Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Religion

The First Hierarch Received by the Argentinian Ministry

On 16 August, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Religion of the Republic of Argentina, learning that the First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia is in Buenos Aires, invited him to the Palacio San Martin.

Metropolitan Laurus went to the Palacio San Martin accompanied by mitred Protopriests Vladimir Skalon and Valentin Iwasjewicz and Prince Sergei Mikhailovich Gorchakov. The honored guests were received by the Vice Secretary of the Department of Religion, Fernando Gonzalez, the Secretary of the Department of Non-Roman Catholic Religions, Jose Cardozo and other representatives of the Ministry. Rev. Alexander Iwasjewicz acted as interpreter at the meeting. The Vice Secretary, Mr. Gonzalez, stated that they were greatly honored to receive the head of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. Mr. Gonzalez also said to Prince Gorchakov that despite the fact that Argentina has not recognized aristocratic titles since 1913, he personally deeply reveres the monarchial form of government and is especially glad to receive a Russian prince. Secretary Cardozo told Vladyka Metropolitan about the amiable relationship of the Ministry with the clergy of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia and that they benefit from each meeting. Vladyka Laurus thanked the Ministry’s representatives for their hospitality and kind words, and said that he hopes this relationship continues. Vladyka Metropolitan also expressed his hope that Argentina survives the current crisis, and that the Russian Orthodox community would help not only with its prayers, but through their actions. The First Hierarch invited the representatives of the Ministry to a reception on 18 August after liturgy at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Buenos Aires.