Archbishop Theophylact's visit: awarded volunteers, consecrated classes, held a meeting

January 20, 2023 | 08:03 |14039

Source: by the author

From January 13 to 17, Archbishop Theophylact of Pyatigorsk and Circassian, the administrator of the Patriarchal Deanery of the parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church in Turkmenistan, visited Turkmenistan.

During the visit, Vladyka visited the churches of Turkmenabat, Bayramali, Mary, Tejen and Ashgabat, where he performed divine services, and also got acquainted with the activities of the temples.

In Turkmenabat, the archpastor consecrated new bells for the belfry, and in Ashgabat he performed the sacrament of the baptism of the daughter of priest John Ukhobotov.

Vladyka Theophylact visited the Church of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos in Mary and the Church of Alexy, Metropolitan of Moscow in Bayramali. There he conducted divine services and rewarded volunteers who made a significant contribution to the development of the temple, and also consecrated the restored parish house of the church in Bayramali.

― The archpastor performed a divine service in our church, - says the rector of the church of Alexy, Metropolitan of Moscow, Father Mikhail Kolodko, - A lot of people came that day, everyone wanted to receive the blessing of the bishop, to talk with him on everyday topics.

At the end of the services, a ceremony of awarding honorary diplomas to distinguished volunteers took place in both churches.

― Vladyka rewarded the most diligent workers of the parish, who have been tirelessly and gratuitously trying for the glory of God for many years, - continues Priest Dmitry. - These are people who, regardless of any circumstances, attend church and help in many things, starting from restoring order on the territory and inside the temple.

After visiting the church of Alexy, Metropolitan of Moscow in Bayramali, Archbishop Theophylact consecrated the restored parish house, which housed classes for groups studying Orthodoxy and Russian culture.

― The consecration of the parish house was a great honor for us, - Father Mikhail Kolodko shares with us, - We have made a major reconstruction with an updated energy supply and heating system. Repairs began in August last year and received feedback and support from local authorities and philanthropists.

― We have built two classrooms so that children can attend modern Sunday clubs. Recruitment is underway now. There are plans to build two economic blocks. Vladyka recommended to refine the site, giving his blessing.

During Theophylact's visit to Turkmenistan, a meeting of the clergy of the Deanery and a Christmas reception for the country's priests and their families were also held.