Archdiocese of Orthodox Churches of Russian Tradition in Western Europe

Moscow Patriarchate

Communiqué from the Archdiocesan Administration on the meeting of the Archdiocesan Council held on 21 June 2013

The Archdiocesan Council met on Friday 21 June under the chairmanship of His Eminence Metropolitan Emmanuel. Among questions discussed:

1. Change of the statutes. The Council decided that a postal consultation exercise would be conducted with clergy of the Archdiocese and those parish lay delegates elected in 2010 who had been invited to the diocesan assembly on March 30. This consultation exercise aims to gather an advisory opinion on a proposal to expand opportunities for the candidacy of the Archbishop which will then be submitted, if applicable, to a vote at the EGA. The consultation will take place by post until July 12.

2. Responding to suggestions from a number of clergy of the Archdiocese, the Council invites all clergy and faithful of the Archdiocese to participate in this process of consultation and preparation for the election of the new Archbishop by renewed prayers, that our Lord may grant all members of the Archdiocese unity, support and consolation in this difficult period. It is proposed that communities and the faithful may wish to have a special day of prayer and fasting (which could be Friday, July 5, 2013) to bring this intention. It is also recommended that the rectors of parishes explain the current situation to the faithful.

3. The Council heard a report from the Dean of the Orthodox Theological Institute in Paris (ITO), Archpriest Nicolas Ozoline on the current academic and material situation of the Institute. The Council reiterated its concern made long-lasting solutions for the operation and funding of the Institute, which, it was recalled, has been an integral part of the Archdiocese. He suggested the organization of a meeting between teachers ITO and members of the Council of the Archdiocese to explore various alternatives.

4. The second part of the meeting was extended to include priests in charge of geographical deaneries of the Archdiocese. The Council heard reports from the deans present on the pastoral situation in their respective regions.