Parish Feast of the Orthodox Parish of St Apostle and Evangelist Matthew in Leuven

On Saturday November 10th, the Orthodox parish of Leuven celebrated its main feast - the day of St. Apostle and Evangelist Matthew. By tradition, the Divine Liturgy was presided by Mgr Simon, archbishop of Brussels and Belgium. Many priests and deacons from other Orthodox parishes, including the clergy of the parish – Fr. Alexander Yavarouski and Protodeacon Alexander Kurjatkin, concelebrated to him.

The Episcopal Divine Liturgy was followed by a moleben to St. Serafim of Sarov (part of his relics has been brought to our church on this day). On this occasion, his icon was decorated with a beautiful framework, embroidered by matushka Ekaterina Yavarouskaya. 

After the service, Mgr Simon greeted numerous parishioners and guests. "I rarely serve in this church, but each time I visit this place with great pleasure ..." - he said. Mgr Simon has also told about his recent trips to Russia and about visit of Holy Patriarch Alexis II to France October 1-4. He finished his speech by the words: "May the Lord keep you all for the prayers of St. Apostle Matthew and St. Seraphim of Sarov. Lord may bless you! Amen!" In a brief reply, Fr. Alexander Yavarouski thanked Mgr Simon for the warm words and for visiting the community. 

As usual, the parish fest was complemented by a meal, cooked by the women of the Parish, and a small concert. The Parish has entered the 5th year of its life...