01-08-2026, Namur

Patronal feast day at the Church of St. Seraphim of Sarov in Namur.

On August 1, the Holy Church celebrates the feast day of one of the most revered Russian saints—St. Seraphim of Sarov. On this day, August 1, 2026, the church consecrated in honor of the saint in the city of Namur celebrated its patronal feast day.

Amid the solemn ringing of bells and with bread and salt, parishioners greeted their archpastor, Archbishop Simon of Brussels and Belgium, who led the festive service.

His Eminence was assisted by the church's rector, Priest Dimitry Yatsun, Priest Vladimir Putyatitsky, Archpriest Alexander Yavorovsky, Archpriest Dimitry Fednov, Priest Kliment Samovarov, Priest Georgy Starostin, Deacon Vladimir Shitikov, Deacon Stefan Devruy, Deacon Oleg Ageenko, and Deacon Daniil Dobrovinsky.

Participation in the celebration was a particular joy for the parishioners of the Church of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew from Leuven. Along with their rector and deacon, a whole busload of them arrived to share in the joy of the patronal celebration and venerate the holy relics of St. Seraphim of Sarov.

Before the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Simon ordained Leonid Anikin as a reader, blessing him for his service to the Church.

In his sermon, Archbishop Simon briefly recounted the life of St. Seraphim, emphasizing that this great saint of God is one of the most revered saints of the Russian Orthodox Church. His love for Christ and his heroic acts of prayer and humility inspire millions of people around the world, and countless believers turn to him with faith in their prayers and receive his gracious help and intercession.

Following the Liturgy, a solemn procession with the holy relics of St. Seraphim of Sarov took place around the church.

Following the service, a fraternal meal was held for the clergy and numerous pilgrims, during which warm congratulations on the patronal feast day were offered, along with wishes for long life, good health, and God's help to Archbishop Simon, the rector of the church, and all the parishioners.

The celebration became a truly joyful event, uniting clergy and faithful from various parishes. On this day, the words of St. Seraphim about Christian love and spiritual joy were especially felt, for it was he who once again gathered everyone under the vaults of his church for common prayer and Eucharistic communion.

Reverend Father Seraphim, pray to God for us!