SYNOD OF BISHOPS: October 13, 2006
"In the Footsteps of Moses": Registration Begins Soon on the First All-Diaspora Pilgrimage for the Youth of All Dioceses of the Russian Church Abroad

With the blessing of the Synod of Bishops, headed by His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus, the Synodal Youth Committee announces to all young members of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, ages 17-26, that a unique pilgrimage is being organized to the holy places of Egypt, Jerusalem and Palestine, specially geared for youth throughout the world. By decision of the Synod of Bishops, His Grace Bishop Peter of Cleveland will lead the pilgrimage.

The pilgrimage is scheduled to begin in Cairo, Egypt, on June 25, 2007. In addition to visiting churches, monasteries and holy sites connected with the flight of the Holy Family, Moses and other saints, the program will include a three-day voyage along the Nile River. The pilgrims will visit many historic sites and attractions of Egypt, and will spend one night in the desert before an ascent of Mount Sinai.

The pilgrims will then visit the holy sites, monasteries and historic sites of Jerusalem and Palestine, including the Sepulcher of the Lord, Gethsemane, the Mount of Olives, Bethlehem, Mount Tabor, Galilee, Nazareth, etc. The pilgrimage will conclude on July 16 in Jerusalem.

In addition to divine services and preparing to receive Holy Communion, there will be time for meetings, discussions and interaction for the youth of the Church Abroad.

Further information on this pilgrimage will be forthcoming soon in the press and on the official site of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia.