From Russia with love in Cheltenham
FIVE-year-old Lina Culley was among the many worshippers who came together for a new church service reaching out to the Slavic community.
Believers were invited to join the first- ever service of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad.
Held at the Greek Orthodox Church of St John Chrysostom, in Bentham, it was led by Archpriest Father Vladimir Vilgerts, from Latvia.
Incense filled the venue as the members of the congregation sang ancient Russian chants.
Lora Goldaeva, from Cheltenham, said: "There are many Orthodox worshippers in the area and some have had to travel to London to get to a service in the past.
"Now we have the opportunity to build our own parish here in Gloucestershire."
The next liturgy will be on November 5, at 10am. For more information call 07957 345188.
2 Comments
by mummyhare
Monday, September 26 2011, 9:00AM
“Just a shame the photographer didn't wait for her to strike a match...
You 'aving a laugh TiG? Any given torch or lantern or indeed candle seem to be blacked out...”
by Russianchurch
Monday, September 26 2011, 8:48AM
“It was a beautiful service and attracted worshippers from as far as London, Evesham, Worcester and Swindon. We are all looking forward to growing the parish here in the Cotswolds which is for anyone interested in Orthodoxy.”