WESTERN EUROPEAN DIOCESE: December 3, 2021
Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe visits Archangel Michael Church in Cannes

On the feastday of St Michael the Archangel, His Grace Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe celebrated the Divine Liturgy in the Stavropegic Parish of St Michael in Cannes, France. With the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia and Rector of the parish, Vladyka Irenei conveyed the festal greetings of the Metropolitan and the whole of the Holy Synod to the parishioners of Cannes, and headed the Vigil and Divine Liturgy in honour of their heavenly patron, co-served by the clerics of the parish, Priest Anton Odaisky and Priest Mark Lopnevs.

At the Little Entrance, Vladyka bestowed the Gold Cross upon Priest Anton, in recognition of his long years of priestly service.

Following the Divine Services, His Grace greeted the faithful and enjoyed a long repast with them in the nearby hall. Expressing his hope that the recent decision of the French courts would now pave the way for the parish’s swift return to its beautiful church building, after a protracted period of dispute by false claimants to the property, Vladyka commended the community for its steadfast faith, perseverance and patience, all of which will be mightily rewarded by God.

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