Saratov, Russia: August 22, 2019
Wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God welcomed in Holy Protection Church

On Tuesday, August 20, the wonderworking Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God "of the Sign" was brought to Holy Protection Church in Saratov, Russia.

The icon was triumphally greeted by Metropolitan Longin of Saratov & Volsk, Bishop Tarasius of Balashov & Rtischevo, Bishop Pachomius of Pokrovsk & Nikolaev, clergy of the diocese, and parishioners of the city’s churches.

The icon was accompanied by her guardian, Bishop Nicholas of Manhattan.

A moleben and akathist were served before the holy image. Singing at the services was the choir of the Patriarch Tikhon Russian-American Musical (PaTRAM) Institute, under the direction of renowned conductor Vladimir Gorbik. The group arrived recently in Saratov to record a new CD of spiritual music.

Before the start of the moleben, Metropolitan Longin addressed those gathered. He reminded everyone gathered of the history of the Protectress of the Russian Diaspora, thanking the assembled hierarchs and parishioners, the icon’s guardian Bishop Nicholas, and the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad Metropolitan Hilarion for the opportunity to bring this sacred relic to the Saratov Diocese.

eparhia-saratov.ru
Translation by Eastern American Diocesan Media Office