ROC Exarch: Along with African priests, most of laity have joined us

Patriarchal Exarch of Africa, Metropolitan Leonid of Klin. Photo: greekmos.ru

In most cases, along with the African priests from the Patriarchate of Alexandria, parishioners of churches also joined the Russian Orthodox Church, said the head of the Patriarchal Exarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church in Africa, Metropolitan Leonid (Gorbachev) of Klin in an interview with RIA Novosti.

According to the bishop, parishioners help their priests and the Russian Orthodox Church also helps them. “Most of the parishioners remained with their priests and actually also moved to the Russian Orthodox Church. We are not aware of conflicts between the parishioners of churches in connection with the transfer of priests to the Russian Orthodox Church,” said the Exarch of Africa.

He said that the issue of churches in the parishes would be solved in different ways. Some church premises were rented by the Patriarchate of Alexandria from private individuals. We are already receiving offers from owners to rent. Where it will be impossible to return the temple, the ROC will help to rent or build a new one.

As reported, the Exarch of the Russian Orthodox Church spoke about the preparation and transfer of items and materials needed for worship to African parishes.

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