To Archpriest Maxim Massalitin, rector of the Holy Resurrection Church in Rabat, and its parishioners
Dear Father Maxim, dear brothers and sisters,
Please accept my heartfelt greetings on the 90th anniversary of the consecration of your church!
Mirrored in the history of the Holy Resurrection Church in the capital of Morocco is what the Russian church émigré community underwent in the 20th century, namely, the tragic exodus of the White armies from Russia, hardships of living in a foreign land and building up the house of God with scarce funds, and later the return to the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate. Fulfilling its spiritual mission, our émigré community tried to come to the understanding of the causes of the empire’s collapse, resorting to faith in repentance and bringing the truths of Orthodoxy to the whole world. Upon the construction of the Holy Resurrection Church in Rabat, the candlelight of church life once again, after many centuries, shone in this ancient part of North Africa.
Consecrated by Metropolitan Eulogius (Georgiyevsky) of blessed memory, this church became the centre of attraction for several generations of the Russian people living in Morocco. With good reason, it can be called a symbol of unity of the Russian people, a token of their unswerving faithfulness to Orthodoxy and reverence towards the traditions of their ancestors. This is a place where Sacraments are celebrated and prayers are offered for the living and the dead, as well as for peace on earth.
On this memorable day, I prayerfully wish you spiritual joy in the Lord, unceasing help from God as you follow the path of Christian life, as well as steadfast faith, strength in body and spirit, peace and longevity!
Invoking God’s blessing upon you,
+Leonid
METROPOLITAN OF KLIN
PATRIARCHAL EXARCH OF AFRICA
